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Two Tiger Sharks wash up on Waikiki and Kwinana beaches

Headshot of Indigo Lemay-Conway
Indigo Lemay-ConwaySound Telegraph
This tiger shark was found washed up on Waikiki beach by early walkers.
Camera IconThis tiger shark was found washed up on Waikiki beach by early walkers. Credit: Anabel Wright/supplied

Local beachgoers received a shock last week after two big tiger sharks washed up on Kwinana and Waikiki beaches.

On January 11, residents on an early morning stroll found a 2.8m tiger shark washed up on Waikiki foreshore.

This tiger shark was found washed up on Waikiki beach by early walkers.
Camera IconThis tiger shark was found washed up on Waikiki beach by early walkers. Credit: Anabel Wright/supplied

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development fisheries officers responded to the report at 7am, where the shark carcass was checked and the cause of death determined before local council rangers removed the animal.

Officers believe that the shark may have died after a fishing event and then washed up after release.

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On January 13, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions officers reported to DBIRD that another 2.5m tiger shark carcass washed up on the Kwinana Horse Beach at 10am.

A Tiger Shark found washed up on Kwinana beach on January 13, 2022.
Camera IconA Tiger Shark found washed up on Kwinana beach on January 13, 2022. Credit: DPIRD/supplied

The DPIRD fisheries officers believe that the tiger shark had been caught by fishermen, as its stomach contents were distended, possibly caused by the removal of a hook.

City of Rockingham rangers collected the carcass from the beach and transported it to the local tip.

DPIRD’s director of statewide operations Graeme Meinema encouraged the public to treat sharks with care.

“We urge fishers to consider other beach users and not put them at risk,” Mr Meinema said.

“Fishers need to remove any sharks they’ve fished and then dispose of them appropriately.

“Removing carcasses helps to reduce the risk of shark attractants and ensure the safety of other beach users.”

Shark sightings should be reported to the Water Police on 9442 8600.

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