Multiple Sydney Beaches Closed After Whale Carcass Washes Ashore

Sydney beaches in the Royal National Park remain closed following the discovery of a large whale carcass, with authorities citing increased shark activity and safety risks.

A 25-tonne, partially decomposed sperm whale was found on rocks at the southern end of Era Beach on Saturday morning, prompting the closure of Garie, Era, Wattamolla and Burning Palms beaches.

New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service area manager Brendon Neilly said the carcass was “stinking” when it washed ashore and confirmed there was no known cause of death. “This is in a sort of medium to progressed state of decomposition,” he said.

Surf Life Saving NSW reported a surge in shark activity in waters surrounding the carcass. Chief executive Stephen Pearce said, “The lifesavers are reporting a significant amount of sharks visibly off the beach and around the rock platform.”

He added: “We can’t prevent people from going in the water, but knowing just how many sharks are there and the reports of larger white and bull sharks in the water, they’re not the fish you want to be swimming in the same water with.”

According to a statement from NSW National Parks, “This has resulted in heightened shark activity along the coastline, with large sharks sighted in the area.”

Authorities have warned beachgoers to stay out of the water while the carcass remains in place. Pearce said the whale had been decomposing offshore before washing up, contributing to the concentration of sharks in the area.

Plans are underway to remove the carcass, with officials intending to tow it to another location before transporting it to a waste facility.

In the meantime, surf lifesavers continue to patrol the affected beaches, supported by surveillance measures including drones and jet skis monitoring shark activity.

Beach closures are expected to remain in place for several days as authorities manage the removal operation and monitor conditions.