Authorities have closed Sorrento Beach in Perth after the discovery of whale remains, marking the latest in a series of incidents that have heightened concerns regarding shark activity. The City of Joondalup removed the remains shortly after they were reported by surf lifesavers, but officials have maintained the closure, warning that residual matter from the carcass could continue to attract sharks to the shoreline.
Rising Frequency of Whale Carcasses
This incident is the third whale carcass to wash up on Perth beaches within the past month. Earlier this week, a three-metre decomposed whale carcass forced the closure of beaches at South Cottesloe, and in late September, a 13-metre humpback whale was removed from South City Beach. The recurring presence of these remains comes as the region prepares for increased beach attendance ahead of the summer season.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is currently monitoring the Sorrento area. In response to the broader safety concerns, the state government is working to expand its shark-tagging program and is considering the deployment of AI-powered drones to enhance surveillance and protect beachgoers.
