Type Status Location Last Updated
Advice - Env Minor Golden Beach 17/02/2021
This Advice message is being issued for Golden Beach.

  • A deceased sperm whale carcass was reported at Golden Beach on Wednesday afternoon, the 20th of January.
  • Due to the whale carcass, there could be an increase in shark activity reported at Golden Beach over coming days.
  • A whale carcass can attract sharks to the area and mean they are closer to the shore than normal.
  • While it is not uncommon for sharks to be present off the Victorian coast, you should exercise additional caution in the area.
  • This Advice message replaces the warning issued on Thursday 11 February 2021.
Stay informed and do not enter the water at closed beaches.

You should exercise additional caution until the whale has been removed.
What you should do:
  • Avoid the area of the entire length of Golden Beach and 500 metres out to sea. 
  • Golden Beach is not patrolled, so water users need to take responsibility for their actions by staying up to date.
  • If you see sharks, report the sighting by calling Triple Zero (000)

Staying safe at nearby beaches:
  • Always swim, dive or surf with a friend.
  • Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches.
  • Don't swim in places where human or animal waste enters the water.
  • Keep away from large schools of fish, seals or other wildlife as these can attract sharks.
This message was issued by Victorian Fisheries Authority.

The next update is expected by 24/02/2021 12:00 pm or as the situation changes.

For more information on staying safe around sharks:
Stay informed:
  • Via www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
  • Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
  • Call the VicEmergency Hotline to talk to someone about this warning on 1800 226 226 (freecall).
  • People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who have a speech/communication impairment can contact VicEmergency Hotline via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677.
  • For help with English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to telephone VicEmergency Hotline. If you know someone who cannot speak English, provide them with this number.
  • Download the VicEmergency app or follow VicEmergency on Twitter or Facebook.