Whale carcass closes Sydney beaches

Sydney's popular Maroubra and Coogee beaches were closed to the public as a precautionary measure after a whale carcass washed up on the rocks between them. The local Randwick council, working with rangers and the NSW Department of Primary Industries, is orchestrating the removal of the deceased marine mammal from a difficult-to-access spot surrounded by cliffs.

Discussions are ongoing with the Gamay Rangers to ensure the whale's removal is both culturally sensitive, respecting its significance as a totem animal to the local Bidjigal people, and environmentally sound. The council is also managing crowd control along the popular coastal walk. Meanwhile, authorities in Tasmania are working to free a large whale stranded in shallow waters off Turners Beach, urging the public to avoid the area due to anticipated danger. Onlookers at Lurline Bay have expressed surprise at the carcass's appearance, noting its deteriorated state and lack of odor.