Authorities urge tourists to stay away from carcass on popular beach

A grim warning has been issued to tourists after a shock find off a popular Australian beach.

Locals and tourists are being urged to exercise caution around the popular Bribie Island beach, after a whale washed up on the beach missing its head and tail.

Queensland’s department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) issued the warning amid fears the whale carcass could attract sharks to the area.

The dead whale, which was missing its head and tail due to a previous shark feeding, was discovered by a member of the public who reported it to authorities.

A spokesman for DESI urged the public to stay clear of the area and to not approach the animal under any circumstances.

Marine Park rangers estimate the whale to be between 10 and 15 tonnes.

The carcass is unable to be moved due to weather conditions.

A whale washed up near Bribie Island beach on Wednesday. Picture: NewsWire handout.

It was missing its head and tail. Picture: NewsWire handout

“People are strongly advised to stay away from the animal. Whales can carry zoonotic diseases, and people are advised never to touch them, Marine Park rangers warned.

“Sharks also feed on whale carcasses, which can significantly increase the danger if people approach a stranded or deceased whale.”

Despite the disturbing images, authorities said it is a normal part of migration season, where humpback whales travel towards the Southern Ocean from September to November seeking cooler waters.

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

The humpback whale was found 500 metres north of Eighth Ave at Woorim, with authorities planning to bury the whale carcass when weather conditions improve later on Thursday.

Originally published as Authorities urge tourists to stay away from carcass on popular beach