Whale freed by authorities after being trapped in shark nets off Rainbow Beach

Controversial shark nets off the coast of Rainbow Beach have captured the wrong marine visitor today, sparking a rescue effort.

A whale has been freed off Rainbow Beach after it was entangled in shark nets on Wednesday morning.

The trapped whale was brought to the attention of residents and authorities through social media at about 10am.

A Department of Agriculture and Fisheries spokesperson said in a media response the whale was untangled and freed by the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol’s Marine Animal Release Team.

“MART has unpicked the net from the whale using specifically designed equipment, and it swam away freely,” Fisheries Queensland shark control program manager Michael Mikitis said.

Facebook comments confirmed the whale was seen swimming away about two hours later.

News of the unfortunate catch sparked numerous comments on Facebook calling for the shark nets to be removed, backed by claims they did nothing but harm other marine species.

Mr Mikitis said anyone who found an animal in distress should contact authorities.

“Anyone who sees a whale or other marine animal caught on drum-lines or shark netting should call the 24-hour Shark Hotline on 1800 806 891,” Mr Mikitis said.