The New South Wales (NSW) government is set to remove shark nets from 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong next week. Traditionally deployed from September 1 to provide a barrier against white, tiger, and bull sharks during the warmer months, these nets were scheduled to be taken down on April 30. However, due to heightened turtle activity, an earlier removal on March 31 is being trialled this season.
To enhance safety measures, the government has increased net inspections to daily and is testing new lighting techniques aimed at deterring turtles and preventing their entrapment in the nets for the 2024-25 season. Recently, there was a shark attack at Gunyah Beach, south of Sydney, which resulted in a woman sustaining injuries that left her unconscious. Thankfully, bystanders came to her aid, and she was subsequently taken to the hospital.
The Australian Shark Incident Database reported four shark attacks in the previous year across the country, with one each occurring in NSW, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. In 2023, there were a total of 17 shark attacks nationwide, including three fatalities, with four incidents occurring in NSW alone. To ensure public safety, SharkSmart advises swimmers to stay between the red and yellow flags, remain close to shore, avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, and stay out of the water if they have any bleeding cuts or wounds.
The beaches affected by the shark management plan span eight councils, including Waverley, Central Coast, Northern Beaches, Sutherland Shire, Wollongong City Council, and Randwick. These councils have expressed concerns about the negative impact of shark nets on marine biodiversity and have supported their removal.
Data from the Humane Society International, obtained from the NSW Department of Primary Industries, indicates that in the 2023-24 season, 134 marine animals were found dead in the shark nets. This number includes critically endangered species such as grey nurse sharks and leatherback turtles. Alarmingly, 93% of the captured marine life were non-target species, with only 36% being released alive.
As the decision to remove the nets unfolds, it highlights the ongoing balance between ensuring swimmer safety and protecting marine ecosystems.