Ocean Sentry
Whale rescuers today successfully returned the last live whale stranded on Naracoopa Beach on King Island back to the water. Parks and Wildlife Service Reserves manager Chris Arthur said the adult female pilot whale was slung between two jet skis and taken off-shore before being released.
“The whale was seen to swim toward a group of whales in the area, several of which had been tagged by rescuers two days earlier.
“This rescue effort has seen 54 pilot whales and five bottlenose dolphins successfully returned to the sea.
“It has been a fantastic effort by everyone involved, particularly the King Island community, who have assisted in making possible one of the largest successful whale rescues in the State’s history,” Mr Arthur said.
A total of 194 animals were stranded on the beach on Sunday night and those animals that did not make it back to sea died.
Mr Arthur said a decision had not yet been made as to where the dead animal remains would be disposed.
“We’re still discussing that issue. That will be made between local council, DPIW and Parks and Wildlife.”
King Island Mayor Charles Arnold was impressed by the massive rescue effort and the tireless way volunteers gave their time.
(From examiner.com.au, Tasmania)
