UPDATE: Central Coast councillors have just announced their unanimous support for a groundbreaking trial to remove shark nets from popular beaches in New South Wales this summer. This decision aims to address the concerning issue of wildlife entrapment and seeks innovative methods to ensure beach safety.
The NSW government has tasked multiple councils, including Waverley, Northern Beaches, and Central Coast, with selecting a beach for this urgent trial. Councillor Jared Wright highlighted the alarming frequency of marine life being caught in these nets, stating, “Time and time again we see wildlife caught in these nets, and this is always disappointing.”
11 beaches in the Central Coast area currently have shark nets installed, with the Department of Primary Industries set to determine which beach will participate in the trial based on data and risk factors. Residents of popular beach communities such as Terrigal, Avoca Beach, and Copacabana have expressed strong support for a shift towards more modern safety solutions.
Mr. Wright emphasized the need for advanced technologies like smart drumlines, shark listening devices, and drones to enhance beach safety. “It is my expectation that the NSW government will assist in making sure that these technologies are available to our surf lifesavers,” he said, underlining the community’s desire for a safer swimming environment.
This development comes shortly after Ryan Park, Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, acknowledged the “widespread” issues associated with shark nets. During a press conference in July, he noted, “We know the problems with nets are widespread, particularly with getting other species of marine life caught in those areas.”
In response to the councillors’ initiative, Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh reiterated that any removal of the nets would depend on a significant enhancement of alternative shark mitigation strategies, emphasizing, “Waverley Council’s position is clear: the safety of our community comes first.”
Amendments to ensure that new technologies will be deployed to protect beachgoers prior to the trial’s commencement have also been secured. As the summer season approaches, this trial represents a critical shift in how NSW beach safety is approached, potentially paving the way for more humane and effective solutions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this trial progresses and local councils implement innovative strategies to keep beachgoers safe while protecting marine wildlife.
