The whale has been deceased for several days
Marine Park rangers are monitoring a deceased adult humpback whale that is floating along the coastline near Wellington Point on Brisbane’s bayside.
The whale was reported to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation on 19 September 2024, and marine park rangers conducted a visual inspection of the whale.
Estimated to be deceased for several days, the whale is in poor condition and does not have a tail, which prevents marine park rangers from towing the whale away from the coastline.
A lit marker buoy has been fixed to the whale to warn boaties travelling in the region at night or at low light that there is a hazard in the water. Skippers are advised to avoid waters off Brisbane’s bayside.
The whale is expected to move along the coastline due to the current poor weather conditions which is expected to include strong winds and large tides over the next 24-hours.
During the annual migration, whales can strand or die for different reasons including poor health, injury or predation.
Whenever a whale strands or moves on the tides in open water, people are advised to stay away from the animal. Whales can carry zoonotic diseases, and people are advised never to touch them. People must be aware that sharks feed on whale carcasses, which can increase the danger if people approach a stranded or deceased whale.
Deceased or stranded marine life, including whales, should be reported immediately to DES on 1300 130 372 or to the relevant council.
