THE Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) last week concluded the burial of the whale carcass that was recently stranded at City Beach at the Red Hill waste management facility.

While such operations are uncommon, the disposal was approved by the relevant authorities and reflects the important role the facility plays in providing specialised waste management and environmental response services to Western Australian communities.

The whale carcass was transported to the Red Hill facility in accordance with operational requirements and regulatory approvals with all handling and burial activities undertaken under strict environmental, safety and operational controls.

The approximately 13m carcass was removed on Thursday, October 1 in a complex operation involving specialist heavy machinery, lifting equipment, experienced operators and careful coordination.

Town of Cambridge staff, specialist crews, contractors, state government agencies and personnel worked together tirelessly over several days to complete the operation safely.

EMRC chief executive officer Hua Jer Liew said the operation highlighted the facility’s capacity to respond to complex and unusual waste management challenges in a safe, responsible, environmentally conscious and community sensitive manner.

“The Red Hill waste management facility provides an important public service, supporting the safe management of materials and situations that require specialised handling,” he said.

“While the disposal of a stranded whale is not a routine occurrence, EMRC has the expertise, infrastructure and environmental safeguards necessary to manage the process appropriately and responsibly.

“Our priority was to ensure the disposal was undertaken safely, efficiently and with minimal impact on the surrounding community and environment.

“This operation demonstrates the important role the facility plays in supporting broader community and environmental outcomes across Western Australia when unique circumstances arise.”

Residents living near the facility may have noticed temporary odours associated with the arrival and burial of the carcass.

“EMRC appreciates the understanding of residents and the wider community while this operation was carried out,” a spokesperson said.