June 21, 2026 — 7:18pmAuthorities have warned people to avoid Bells Beach after a decaying whale carcass washed up there on Sunday, raising concerns sharks could flock to the waters.Vic Emergency issued a warning a little after 2pm on Sunday about the carcass, temporarily closing the world-famous surf beach along with surf spot Winkipop due to the possibility of sharks appearing in the waters to feed on the carcass.A whale carcass washed up on Bells Beach forcing the temporary closure of the beach. Dean SnowThe Victorian Fisheries Authority is monitoring the area for any shark appearances and they have warned people to stay out of the water while the closures are in place.“Due to a whale carcass there could be an increase in shark activity at Bells Beach and Winkipop,” Vic Emergency wrote.“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.”A whale carcass has washed up on Bells Beach triggering warnings and beach closures on Sunday.Dean SnowThe Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action - Barwon South West region said it was working with locals to remove the carcass.“A DEECA incident management team is working with Wadawurrung traditional owners, the land manager GORCAPA, and other stakeholders to plan for its removal,” DEECA wrote in a Facebook post.“The area has been closed for public safety reasons until the completion of the operation.”Be the first to know when major news happens. Sign up for breaking news alerts on email or turn on notifications in the app.Roy Ward is a sports writer, live blogger and breaking news journalist. He's been writing for The Age since 2010.Connect via X or email.From our partners