Whale carcass to naturally decompose at 13th Beach

THE fin whale carcass now on 13th Beach will be left to naturally decompose, with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) claiming “removal is not a viable option at this time.”

DEECA states decomposing is likely to take some months as part of a natural process of the marine ecosystem along the coast.

The carcass has been located at the west of the Bluff near Barwon Heads since September 13, but its removal by towing offshore “cannot be done safely.”

“For now, factoring in weather, logistics and public safety, the carcass will be left to decompose naturally,” DEECA said in a statement today (Wednesday, September 25).

Removing the approximately 16-tonne fin whale carcass would require it to be divided up and transported by truck from the access point out the front of the 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

This process would result in a large section of the beach being closed off for an extended period and would also require the removal of a top layer of soiled sand after completion.

Some community members expressed displeasure about the statement on social media, with many saying removing the whale via the access point would seem to be a better and faster option.

Local business owner Sarah Quinney said the situation was “ridiculous”.

“No one is surfing. You’ve got great white’s bumping guys at Point Impossible. Cut the the thing up and move it like we did the last one.

“You have local surf/community clubs and businesses in the region who depend on tourism, and you will have a beach a major draw card closed for months.

“God forbid someone gets hurt from increased shark activity in the region.

“I honestly can’t believe this is the outcome. We’re basically in a recession and you have a local community depending on tourism and you’re saying we literally wipe our hands.”

Surfrider Foundation Surf Coast branch manager John Foss also called for action.

“Surfers and swimmers should avoid the beach for months? Totally unacceptable. Do something!” he said.

DEECA said large swells and high tides may result in the carcass washing offshore or moving to a more accessible location, with a new approach to be assessed if required.

Authorities say they understand the decision to leave the carcass onsite may be an inconvenience for some beach users but ask everyone to respect the natural process.

An exclusion zone has been established around the carcass, and new signage has been installed at access points along 13th Beach and the Bluff.

Swimmers and surfers should continue to avoid the area, and seek information updates from the VicEmergency app.

Whales are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 regardless of whether they are alive or dead, and it is an offence to interfere with, take or be in possession of parts of a deceased whale.