Police are advising beachgoers and water enthusiasts of a heightened risk of sharks in waters near Broulee on the state's South Coast.
The warning comes after the carcass of a whale was founding floating in the water approximately 300 metres east of Broulee Island around 6.30pm today (Saturday 19 December 2020).
Police were notified by the crew of the Westpac Surf Life Saving Helicopter that they saw a large number of sharks feeding on the carcass of the whale.
Concerns were raised regarding the safety of beachgoers at nearby North Broulee Beach, which is popular with holidaymakers at this time of year, given the proximity of the carcass being near the beach.
Police are advising swimmers and recreational boat users to be aware of the heightened presence of sharks in these waters.
At 7.00pm, two civilian vessels under the supervision of Surf Lifesaving attached a tow line to the whale and towed the carcass approximately two kilometres out to sea.
Water Police from Eden will attend the area tomorrow (Sunday 20 December 2020) to make a further assessment of the carcass. The Westpac Helicopter will make further patrols to assess the possible increased presence of sharks in relation to the nearby beaches.
NSW Surf Lifesaving in consultation with Eurobodalla Council are closing North and South Broulee beach and will be conducting drone and jetski patrols of the area throughout the day to ensure safety of the area.
South Coast Police District Duty Officer, Chief Inspector Peter Volf said those planning on fishing were advised to show extra caution.
"People should be aware that sharks are attracted to whale carcasses and to avoid the area to prevent any unnecessary distraction to the sharks while feeding, Ch Insp Volf said.
