Beachgoers are being urged to take extra care after a whale carcass was found off Perth’s southern coastline, prompting a shark alert.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has issued a shark alert for Sulphur Bay on Garden Island in the City of Rockingham.

The alert was triggered after Parks and Wildlife Service officers from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions reported the whale carcass at 9.11am on Thursday.

Authorities warned that the carcass could attract sharks closer to shore.

While sharks can be present in WA waters at any time of the year, DPIRD said the presence of the carcass meant people should exercise additional caution if swimming, surfing, diving or boating near Sulphur Bay.

WHAT TO DO

• Take additional caution in the Sulphur Bay area.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by local government rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA.
• Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X (formerly Twitter).
• If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and @SLSWA on X.

EXTRA INFORMATION

Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X – x.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.