Young humpback whale freed from shark nets at Kirra just one week after one was trapped in same area
CHECK OUT this footage showing a dramatic rescue of a young whale from shark nets at Kirra.
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A YOUNG whale has been freed from shark nets at Kirra just one week after a major operation to save another in the same area.
The humpback became entangled in the nets some time overnight or early this morning.
WHALE FREED IN QUICK SEA WORLD RESCUE
It is believed a shark net contractor discovered the whale and alerted the marine authorities.
Sea World marine staff assisted by the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol’s Marine Animal Rescue team freed the mammal about 10am this morning.
It is believed the whale has swum away in what appears to be a good condition.
Queensland Shark Control Program Manager Jeff Krause said the nine metre whale’s rescue operation went smoothly, thanking Sea World and the shark contractor.
“Sea conditions were good and the team worked with Sea World and the shark contractor in the release operation,” he said.
“Throughout the release the whale was near the surface, which meant it could breathe easily, and the team successfully cut the ropes off.”
The incident is the second in the Kirra area in two weeks and also follows a baby whale being drowned in nets off Bilinga three weeks ago.
The repeated incidents are sparking anger among animal lovers, who want shark nets removed during the winter whale migration season.
More information to come.
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