Sea creatures, strange finds and physical feats feature in WA photo wrap

This month in Western Australia, our news coverage captured a diverse snapshot of life across the state. From the unexpected appearance of a large inflatable whale outside a corporate meeting, highlighting protests against energy giants' gas operations, to the vital scientific work underway to protect the iconic Ningaloo Reef from the ravages of climate change and extreme weather, we've kept our finger on the pulse.

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It is not every day you see a metres-long whale on land, but this inflatable cetacean was an unexpected guest outside the Woodside annual general meeting at Crown in Perth.

The economic pressures of rising fuel prices were a stark reality for many, particularly those in service industries like hospitality, though a recent dip offered some relief. Meanwhile, Anzac Day commemorations across WA, from Perth to Kalgoorlie and Albany, saw thousands brave the cold to honor service members. However, the solemnity of these events was unfortunately marred by a disrespectful incident during a Welcome to Country ceremony in Perth, drawing widespread condemnation.

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In WA's north, scientists from the Minderoo Foundation and Taronga Conservation Society are breeding more resilient corals to help restore the Ningaloo Reef, which has been slammed by record-breaking ocean temperatures and, more recently, Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

Tragically, the month also saw a devastating loss with the death of two inmates at Bandyup Women's Prison, a situation described as a "damning reflection on this country." These stories, from environmental challenges to social issues and the everyday struggles of West Australians, underscore the complex realities we face. Our commitment at ABC News is to reflect these stories with the depth and nuance they deserve, providing a voice for our communities across the vast expanse of Western Australia.

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Like many across the country and the world, hospitality worker Madison Young has been feeling the bite at the bowser as fuel prices stayed high in early April.