‘Almost looks fake’: two Sydney beaches closed after whale carcass washes up

Swimming banned at Maroubra and Coogee while council prioritises culturally respectful' removal of remains

Coogee and Maroubra beaches have been closed as a precaution after a whale carcass washed up on the rocks between the two busy swimming and surfing spots in Sydney's eastern suburbs.

The local council said it was working with rangers and the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries on the whale's removal from a difficult-to-access location surrounded by cliffs and rock ledge".