Two whale carcasses found in water at Portland North, increasing potential for shark activity closer to shore

Hungry sharks may be spotted in the Portland area after two whale carcasses washed up, authorities have warned. Find out more.

Authorities have warned beach-goers about potential increased shark activity in the Portland area after two whale carcasses washed up nearby.

The two carcasses were found at Portland North just before midday on Monday, with a public warning issued through the VicEmergency platform.

The warning encourages the public to avoid the area as carcasses can “attract sharks to the area and mean they are closer to the shore than normal”.

“While it is not uncommon for sharks to be present off the Victorian coast, you should exercise additional caution in the area,” the warning read.

The location of the potential shark activity was added to the VicEmergency Incident map, just near the Great South West Walk in Portland. Picture: VicEmergency

Life Saving Victoria general manager Liam Krige said sharks were a normal part of the marine environment and while sightings were common, LSV’s message was to be alert rather than alarmed.

“One of the easiest things you can do to be shark smart is swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled location, where lifesavers can not only keep an eye on you, but also any potential aquatic risks, including sharks,” Mr Krige said.

Mr Krige advised beachgoers to follow all warnings issued by Emergency Management Victoria, lifesavers and lifeguards or Fisheries Victoria and leave the water if asked to do so for their own safety.

“You should also avoid swimming between dusk and dawn where sharks are typically more active, steer clear of murky or silty water, river mouths, deep channels or anywhere fish or other aquatic wildlife are behaving erratically,” he said.

“It’s a common misconception sharks are the biggest risk at Australian beaches, when in reality, it is rips.”

Mr Krige said it was important for people to prioritise their safety around water, especially with Thursday’s public holiday.

Anyone who spots a shark should exit the water and report the sighting immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).

If anyone is at a patrolled location — they should alert lifesavers, and should not enter the water until lifesavers have given the all clear.