‘Samples taken’: Humpback discovered dead near K’gari, shark alert

A humpback whale has been discovered off K’gari and relocated to a “remote” island where sharks can feast in peace - as long as people avoid the area.

Marine Park rangers have secured a deceased adult humpback in a secluded location near Dream Island in the Great Sandy Straits off K’gari.

Samples have been taken after an adult humpback was found dead near Dream Island off K’gari.

Marine park rangers have secured a deceased adult humpback in a secluded location in the Great Sandy Straits.

The dead whale was towed by marine park rangers after a member of the public reported the mammal to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation on September 22.

“The adult humpback whale is approximately 10 to 12 metres in length,” a spokeswoman from the department said.

“No necropsy will be performed but samples of the animal have been taken for analysis.

“Marine park rangers towed the whale about one kilometre from where it initially beached itself to secured mangroves in the local area to allow the natural processes of decomposition to continue.

Marine Park rangers have secured a deceased adult humpback in a secluded location near Dream Island in the Great Sandy Straits off K’gari.

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

“Whenever a whale strands or moves on the tides in open water, people are advised to stay away from the animal.

“Whales can carry zoonotic diseases, and people are advised never to touch them.

“People must be aware that sharks feed on whale carcasses, which can increase the danger if people approach a stranded or deceased whale.”

Deceased or stranded marine life, including whales, should be reported immediately to DESI on 1300 130 372 or to the relevant council.