While whales are regular visitors to the area at this time of year - as are sharks even if they aren't as visible and photogenic - having a dead one close to a public recreation area saw the council move into action.

By lunchtime, BVSC had announced it has closed the wharf and beach for "at least 24 hours"

"Please stay out of the water and away from the wharf," the council posted to its Facebook page. "Council is working with NSW government agencies to have the carcass removed as soon as possible."

National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Police were on site Monday, looking at ways to potentially remove the whale carcass from the rocks.

The whale bore multiple injuries including bite marks, and at least three great white and tiger sharks were seen circling nearby as people gathered to see what all the activity was about.

Those commenting on the whale removal and beach closure fell into two camps - some expressed sadness at the loss of what appears to be a juvenile humpback whale, while others decried the "nanny state", saying sharks were always in the area so why should this one make any difference.

Readers are reminded that intentionally targeting sharks while fishing from the Tathra Wharf is prohibited under a council ordinance, with signs to that effect at the wharf.

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