Iconic surf beach closed after shark warning

Victorian authorities are urging people to avoid the famous Bells Beach after the discovery of a whale carcass washed up there on Sunday.

Officials are concerned the remains of the whale may attract sharks to the iconic surfing beach and nearby Winkipop to feed on the carcass.

“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.”

People are being warned to avoid the area and stay out the sea.

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The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action - Barwon South West region said it was working with local residents and the traditional owners to remove the carcass.

“The area has been closed for public safety reasons until the completion of the operation,” it said in a Facebook post.

Bells Beach, on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, is one of Australia’s most famous surfing destinations.