Whale carcass closes two beaches

A heavily decomposed whale washed up on Thursday morning at Lurline Bay, a rocky cove between Coogee and Maroubra beaches in Sydney's eastern suburbs. Both beaches are now closed until further notice.

Believed to be juvenile humpback

The whale is believed to be a juvenile humpback, though its advanced state of decomposition makes confirmation difficult. Gamay Rangers manager Robert Cooley said the animal is in a pretty advanced stage of decomposition.

“the animal is in a pretty advanced stage of decomposition”

Shark risk prompts closure

Randwick Council closed the beaches to protect oceangoers, as whale carcasses have been known to attract sharks.

Council prioritises cultural respect

Randwick Council mayor Dr Clare Willington said there are no plans to remove the whale. Staff are working with Gamay Rangers on a culturally and environmentally sensitive approach, leaving the creature in peace.

“We have cordoned off the area to leave this creature in peace and safe from the attention of people”

Whale is sacred to local people

The whale is an important totem animal to the local Bidjigal people. Gamay Rangers manager Robert Cooley said previous instances where beached animal carcasses were taken to landfill had distressed his community.

Tides and wind pose challenge

The carcass was first spotted Wednesday near Manly, where attempts were made to tow it out to sea.

“not super confident the rising tide would return the carcass to the sea”

Rangers to discuss intervention if needed

If intervention becomes necessary, Gamay Rangers will discuss plans with cultural advisers. The council is encouraging residents and visitors to avoid the area and follow directions from lifeguards and authorities.