Recent footage has shown a three-metre shark near the shore days after an alarming attack in the same location south of Adelaide. A surf lifesaving team at Port Noarlunga in Onkaparinga attempted to push the shark back to sea while anglers filmed the incident from the jetty around 10:30 am today.
In response to this situation, authorities have decided to broaden suburban shark patrols. Emergency Services Minister, Emily Bourke, announced that aerial patrols will continue for a longer period this year than previously. She noted, “This is the second time we have extended our patrols this season as people are still flocking to our beaches.”
Bourke acknowledged potential connections to an algal bloom but clarified that the specifics are yet to be determined. Although a shark attack occurred last Thursday morning, there are no immediate plans to deploy shark patrol planes on weekdays.
In addition to the expanded patrols, the state government is collaborating with Surf Life Saving SA to explore further safety measures. Chief executive Damien Marangon mentioned, “We are considering real-time tracking solutions and examining Surf Life Saving’s coastal safety camera network.”
The aerial patrols encompass metropolitan beaches from North Haven to Rapid Bay and the southern coastline of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Recent shark incidents in more isolated areas have also driven authorities to take swift action. Marangon revealed that nine trauma kits have been dispatched to regional locations, where they can significantly impact safety during emergencies.