Researchers urge rethink on WA whale carcass disposal methods and costs
Whale researchers are calling for a change in how washed-up humpback carcasses are removed and paid for after multiple deaths occurred on West Australian beaches recently.
Recent beach closures continue
Peppermint Grove Beach remains closed into next week while shark patrols and site testing proceed. The 12.5-metre humpback carcass washed ashore on Tuesday near the Shire of Capel. Authorities removed the 14-tonne remains with a crane on Wednesday before trucking them to a disposal site.
Debate over funding and responsibility
The state government insists land managers must cover removal costs, which previously cost one Perth council almost $180,000. Researchers argue that centralised responsibility and offshore disposal are preferable despite potential complications. The Shire of Capel noted the removal process was entirely necessary for public safety.
Reported by one outlet
Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.
Reported by
1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.