Update: Blairgowrie Beach closed to public

The land manager of the Camerons Bight Beach at Blairgowrie where an elephant seal is currently resting has closed the carpark and beach to the public.

The decision to close the area was made by the WhiteCliffs to Camerons Bight Foreshore Reserve Committee of Management in conjunction with the Conservation Regulator following escalating community interest which has threatened the welfare of the seal.

The presence of the large elephant seal has been attracting crowds of onlookers to the area after it was filmed in Point Lonsdale on Friday.

Elephant seals are known to visit and rest on Victorian beaches and can become defensive if approached by humans or animals.

The public is urged to stay away from the Camerons Bight Beach at Blairgowrie and obey all signage and fenced off areas.

Foreshore Reserve Rangers and Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers will be monitoring and patrolling the area to ensure beachgoers respect the closures.

People must keep a minimum distance of 30 metres away from seals, 50 metres if they have a dog, and further if instructed by authorities.

The Camerons Bight Beach will remain closed for the foreseeable future.