A shark sighting was reported off Merricks Beach in Western Port Bay on Saturday afternoon, according to a public entry on the Dorsal Shark Reports platform.
The listing states the shark was seen about 50 metres from shore near Merricks at 5:15pm on 24 January 2026.
What the report says
The sighting is recorded as an “unknown” shark, with no length specified, and notes that one shark was observed.
The report type is listed as a sighting from water.
People in dingy saw shark about 50m offshore
No photos or video were attached to the report.
Where it was reported
The map accompanying the Dorsal listing places the sighting off Merricks Beach, on the Western Port Bay side of the Mornington Peninsula.
Merricks Beach faces Western Port, east of the Peninsula, and is distinct from the Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait coastlines.
Public safety reminder
Authorities routinely advise beach users to remain alert to changing conditions, avoid the water if a shark is sighted, and follow any directions from lifesaving services or local authorities if they are in attendance.
Information request
STPL News is seeking any additional verified information or eyewitness accounts related to this sighting.
Anyone with details, photos, or video is invited to contact the newsroom.
