Dead humpback whale poses danger to boaties, swimmers off Brisbane’s bayside

Swimmers and boaties have been warned to avoid waters off Redland Bay, where a decaying humpback whale posed a safety risk.

Rangers are keeping watch over the rotting humpback carcass, which no longer has a tail and is posing a navigational threat to boaties. Picture: DES

Holiday swimmers and boaties on Brisbane’s bayside are being cautioned about a dead adult humpback whale floating in waters off Wellington Point.

Marine Park rangers have been closely monitoring the carcass since it was reported to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation on Thursday.

The carcass off Wellington Point.

The carcass of the whale, estimated to have been dead for several days, was in poor condition and notably missing its tail.

Rangers said the significant deterioration made it difficult to tow the body away from the coastline, increasing potential hazards in the area.

A lit marker buoy has been attached to the whale to alert night-time and lowlight boaties of the floating hazard.

Skippers are strongly advised to steer clear of the waters off Brisbane’s bayside to avoid any possible accidents.

Weather conditions were expected to worsen over the next 24 hours, bringing strong winds and large tides, which could cause the whale body to drift further along the coastline.

The presence of the dead whale was not only a navigational hazard but also a potential health risk.

The carcass poses health threats.

During the annual migration season, whales can strand or die for various reasons, including poor health, injury, or predation.

Rangers warned that when a whale carcass was in open water or washed ashore, it was crucial for people to maintain a safe distance.

Whales can harbour zoonotic diseases, which are transmissible to humans, making it unsafe to touch or approach the carcass.

Additionally, the presence of a whale carcass can attract sharks, posing further danger in the vicinity.

Authorities urged the public to stay away from the whale and report any sightings of deceased or stranded marine life to DES on 1300 130 372 or to Redland City Council.

“It is vital that people heed these warnings and avoid the affected waters until the situation is resolved,” a Department spokesman said.

“The co-operation of the public is essential in preventing any potential health risks or accidents related to the deceased whale.”

Marine Park rangers said they would continue to monitor the situation over night and will provide updates.