Volunteers reflect on role after whale stranded on our shore

Beachgoers and the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) volunteers witnessed a rare and emotional event on Wollongong’s South Beach in July 2025 – the stranding of a melon-headed whale, a species seldom seen in shallow coastal waters.

The incident unfolded in real time. While scanning the ocean, two ORRCA members flying drones noticed a lone animal swimming in an unusual pattern close to the shoreline.

On closer inspection, the drone footage revealed a melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra), a deep-water oceanic species rarely observed near shore, showing signs of disorientation. Thanks to the members on scene calling the 24/7 hotline, ORRCA was able to activate its response network.

Due to the real-time positioning provided by the drone team, volunteers were able to arrive on the sand exactly as the animal came ashore, enabling a rapid and coordinated rescue attempt.

Once on scene, ORRCA’s trained rescuers worked for hours to stabilise the animal, providing specialised care and monitoring its vital signs while awaiting assessment from the NPWS veterinarian.

The team made a careful attempt to refloat the whale but unfortunately, the whale was unable to remain upright or swim independently – critical signs that underlying illness or injury was severe.

After continued monitoring and veterinary examination, the attending wildlife veterinarian determined that the whale’s condition was not compatible with recovery. Euthanasia was recommended as the kindest and most humane option to prevent further suffering. Although heartbreaking, these decisions are made with the animal’s welfare as the absolute priority.

Melon-headed whales are often mistaken for small whales, but they are a species of oceanic dolphin. They typically live far offshore in waters more than 1000 metres deep and are almost always found in large pods of often 100 individuals or more.

For one to be found alone in shallow water is extremely unusual and usually indicates that the animal is already unwell. Without the protection and coordinated movement of its pod, the likelihood of survival is extremely low.

This makes the Wollongong stranding both a significant and deeply sad event for our region.

ORRCA would like to acknowledge the many volunteers who responded so quickly, and members of the public who gave space and support.

While not every rescue ends in a release, every response matters. Each incident contributes to national research on marine mammal health, behaviour and conservation, helping us better understand how to protect these remarkable marine mammals.

ORRCA remains committed to responding to every call for help across NSW and beyond.

If you see a whale, dolphin or seal in distress, please contact the ORRCA 24/7 Rescue Hotline: (02) 9415 3333.