Home / Environment / Whale's River Journey Ends in Tragedy
Whale's River Journey Ends in Tragedy
5 Oct
Summary
- Juvenile humpback whale found dead in NSW river.
- Whale entered river near Bundjalung National Park.
- Similar river whale events occurred in recent years.
A juvenile humpback whale was discovered dead in the Clarence River, near Bundjalung National Park on NSW's mid-north coast. The whale was first sighted swimming into the river on Saturday afternoon and became grounded on a sandbar, dying shortly after. Authorities towed the carcass out to sea on Sunday.
While this incident is considered rare, whale scientists indicate that whales are known to explore rivers and estuaries occasionally. This behaviour can be attributed to curiosity, misadventure, or underlying health issues, which appeared to be the case for the deceased juvenile.
This event is not unprecedented, with other whales having entered river systems in recent years. In 2020, three humpbacks entered the East Alligator River in Kakadu National Park, with one traveling 30km upstream. Last year, two humpbacks were seen under Melbourne's West Gate Bridge.
Authorities advised the public to avoid surrounding beaches due to increased shark activity, a common occurrence when whale carcasses are present. Experts recommend reporting any whales in distress or unusual locations to environmental authorities.
