Sad end for stranded whale calf

QUEENSLAND Parks and Wildlife has confirmed that a humpback whale calf that was stranded on Fraser Island has been euthanased.
QPWS principal ranger Ross Belcher said a member of the public range 1300 ANIMAL to report the stranding between Hook Point and Eurong on Wednesdy 8 July.
“Rangers went to the site and found a newborn calf about three metres long and no adult whale in the area offshore,” Mr Belcher said.
“We sought expert veterinary advice, and in the interests of the animal’s welfare, euthanasia was the best outcome. The animal will be buried on the island.”
QPWS said traditional owners were advised.
“The humpback population has been increasing, and around 20,000 will migrate along the east coast this season. Unfortunately strandings do occur, for many reasons,” Mr Belcher said.