Authorities are racing to save a humpback whale that has beached itself off Perth’s south coast.
The Department of Biosecurity, Conservation and Attractions confirmed officers are at Port Kennedy beach where the humpback whale has begun to become stranded.
“Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions officers are responding to a humpback whale that has stranded on a sand bank in shallow water in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, Port Kennedy,” they said.
“Officers are liaising with veterinarians to assess the whale’s health and determine the most appropriate course of action.”
It was seen swimming close to shore throughout Wednesday morning, and public reports say the animal had began to become stuck on the sand just after 11am.
The Port Kennedy Beach has been closed until further notice, and the public have been warned to stay away to avoid stressing the animal.
The whale has been observed off Rockingham and Port Kennedy recently, and locals have been warned the distressed whale could attract sharks to the area.
A storm is also brewing off the coast and has dumped heavy rain and wind in the Rockingham region throughout Wednesday, creating challenging conditions for rescuers.
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