A Queensland beach has been shut off to the public after a mystery object, believed to be space junk, was discovered washed up on the shore.

Authorities were called to Forrest Beach about 2.25pm Friday after “potentially toxic” debris was found washed up on the sand.

It is thought the objects may have been debris from a crashed satellite, potentially hydrogelic propellant, an eco-friendly fuel commonly used to power the orbiting kit.

Following the discovery, the beach, which sits about 80km north of Townsville, was shut down by authorities while work was carried out to remote the debris.

And while this task has now been completed, the beach remains cordoned off until confirmation of its source has been given.

Queensland’s fire department has confirmed the objects have been taken away by specialists after being located by beachgoers.

“Emergency services, including Queensland Fire and Rescue crews, responded to Forrest Beach at about 4:15pm on Friday, after multiple objects were located on the beach by members of the public who alerted local authorities,” a spokesman said.

“Queensland Fire and Rescue crews, including specialist scientific teams, packed one of the objects away last night, and another two this morning.

“The objects have been safely secured in drums.

“The area is safe and there is no risk to the public, however a 50-metre exclusion zone remains.”

As a safety precaution, members of the public have been prohibited from a 50m area running between Taylor’s Beach and the Forrest Beach boat ramp.

Investigations to properly identify the objects remain under way.