Between 50 and 100 pilot whales have stranded themselves on a beach near Dunsborough in Western Australia’s southwest.
Authorities from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, along with Perth Zoo vets are on their way to respond to the situation.
The whales are stranded on a beach at Toby’s Inlet along Geographe Bay, a popular tourist area about 243km southwest of Perth.
Authorities and wildlife rescuers have asked people to stay away while they try to rescue the whales.
They have also issued a shark advice for the area, saying it was possible that dead and injured animals could attract leading sharks close to shore.
A spokesperson from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development said Parks and Wildlife Service officers were leading the response and managing the mass stranding incident.
“While it is not uncommon for sharks to be present off the Western Australian coast throughout the year, people should exercise additional caution,” the spokesperson said.
“Take additional caution in the Toby’s Inlet area.”
Police are assisting authorities and wildlife rescuers with the response to the large number of whales stranded at Toby’s Inlet.
Officers have urged people to keep clear of the area unless they have been in contact with Parks and Wildlife in relation to providing assistance.
“While we appreciate the strong desire to help, the area has become overcrowded with volunteers who are impacting on authorities attempting to mobilise a response,” a police spokesperson said.
“If your vehicle is parked on Caves Road, please considering moving it to allow for the access of resources.
“Your cooperation is very much appreciated.”
A Parks and Wildlife spokesperson said they knew people wanted to help but asked that people did not attempt to rescue the whales without direction from DBCA staff, because it could cause further injury and distress to the animals and hinder a coordinated rescue effort.
“If you would like to help, please contact the Parks and Wildlife Service Busselton office on 9752 5555,” a spokesperson said.
“The highest priority at mass whale stranding events is always human safety followed by animal welfare.
“We want all staff and volunteers to go home safe.
“We ask that people please follow instructions of DBCA staff to ensure the highest human safety and animal welfare outcomes are achieved.”
Dunsborough & Busselton Wildlife Care Inc said on social media that they were at the scene with DBCA, rangers and others to help rescue the whales and asked people to stay away.
“The public are now hindering procedures and lots dogs and kids (are) causing more problems, please stay away and do not call us, we are here,” they said.
“We will ask for help as and when needed.
“Thank you, please stay away.”
A person commented that it was “absolutely disgusting that people would take their dogs down their stressing (the) animals further and even further horrifying to think that people are letting their child climb on the dead whales… so disrespectful.”