A HUMPBACK whale carcass that washed up on Honeycombs beach on July 5 has now been removed during a six-hour operation.
The 13-metre carcass, which washed up on the popular surfing beach in Leeuwin- Naturaliste National Park and Ngari Capes Marine Park, was removed by Parks and Wildlife and Cowaramup-based Cowara Contractors.
Parks and Wildlife Blackwood District operations officer Ed Hatherley said the removal required 10 people, a traxcavator, excavator and skid steer loader in challenging conditions.
“After retrieving the carcass from the shallows, it was wrapped in tarpaulins, netting and chains, and was carefully maneuvered by machinery up an incline, through a narrow gap in the dunes and down to a waiting semi-trailer with a low loader,” he said.
“The animal was then firmly secured in the trailer and transported to a landfill facility.”
Mr Hatherley said the male adult whale, which weighed about 30 tonnes, was removed because it posed a safety risk to surfers and visitors to the beach.
“Because the decomposing whale had the potential to attract sharks and was dangerously rolling around in the shallows, we made the quick decision to remove it,” he said.
“Moving a carcass of this size was challenging, but I am pleased that we were able to get the job done, and I thank the local community for their patience while the beach and surrounding roads were closed.”
Anyone who sees a troubled or stranded whale, or a whale carcass, should call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.
