The towing of a sperm whale carcass along a 20km stretch of coast near Wollongong, New South Wales has sparked significant concern among local fishers, surfers, and divers. Community members reported increased shark activity in the area following the operation, which was criticized for its poor communication and lack of public warnings. Greens councillor Jess Whittaker described the removal as a 'clumsy' operation, stating that the whale was not treated with the respect it deserved. The whale was discovered on April 25 and was towed from Era Beach to the Bellambi boat ramp on April 28. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) managed the removal but faced challenges due to the whale's advanced decomposition and the lack of vehicle access. Local authorities, including the Wollongong city council, have been criticized for their response, with calls for a review to ensure better safety protocols in the future. The incident has highlighted the cultural significance of whales to the local Indigenous community and the need for a more sensitive approach to such operations.