A whale carcass that washed ashore at Collendina was buried by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) officers.
The carcass was discovered last Thursday morning and kept surfers and swimmers out of the water at 5W due to increased risk of shark activity.
DELWP said burial of the whale is an environmentally friendly option that allows the whale to naturally decompose.
The humpback whale was in an advanced state of decomposition when found.
“The preferred method for disposal of a whale of this size is to bury it above the high tide line at the base of the sand dune,” DELWP Regional Agency Commander Aimee Haywood said.
“The whale will naturally decompose and pose little risk of attracting sharks to the area.
“We are currently working with the City of Greater Geelong, Victorian Fisheries Authority and Traditional Owner groups to reduce risks to public safety and ensure the operation has a limited impact on the environment.”
An advice message remained in place over the weekend for people not to swim in the area due to heightened risk of sharks.
Surfing Victoria and Surfing Australia postponed the Woolworths Surfer Groms Comp on the weekend due to the whale carcass.
The event that was scheduled to run at Ocean Grove Main Beach and is part of the national series and was expecting over 80 junior competitors from across Victoria.
“The safety of competitors at our events is our first priority,” Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson said.
Whale remains are protected by law and must not be interfered with by members of the public.
For up to date advice and warnings see www.emv.vic.gov.au.
Any sightings of whales in distress should be reported to the whale and dolphin emergency hotline on 1300 136 017.
