BUSSELTON is to get aerial shark patrols on weekends and school holidays – and councillors will have a briefing with the Department of Fisheries today to discuss a shark plan.
The Premier Colin Barnett announced patrols as one of the measures to increase protection for WA beachgoers.
Shire president Ian Stubbs and Vasse MLA Troy Buswell have welcomed the move, following a recent shark fatality at Bunker Bay and sightings of large sharks in Geographe Bay, some next to the Busselton Jetty.
Busselton has some major swimming events coming up, the Geo Bay Swim between Quindalup and Busselton, Ironman, and Jetty Swim.
Mr Barnett said three fatal shark attacks in the past two months and an increase in the number of sharks spotted along the coast highlighted the need for extra patrols to increase public safety.
Helicopter patrols would start immediately along the coastline between Mandurah and Yanchep from 6.30am.
“The State Government is also starting weekend and school holiday helicopter patrols along parts of the South West coastline from Bunbury to beaches in Margaret River,” he said.
Mr Barnett said it was important that West Australians felt safe while enjoying WA’s beaches, however the State Government could only do so much.
He urged individuals to do their bit to minimise the risk of shark attack.
In a separate move representatives from the Department of Fisheries, including CEO Stuart Smith, will address councillors today.
“I can advise that the officer will be talking about a shark hazard response plan,” Cr Stubbs said.
“It is sad that it has taken three recent deaths to motivate some action to protect people who wish to recreate in the ocean. People can go on about the ocean being the shark’s territory as long as they like – but I do believe that everyone, the three levels of government, and the public, need to do whatever possible to protect human life.
“I am pleased to hear that the State Government will be providing aerial shark patrols for the South West. This will certainly be a step in the right direction.
“I am not sure that fencing all swimming areas is a practical solution. The large number of swimming areas, and surfing areas, would involve an enormous cost. Perhaps fencing a few of the most-used swimming areas could be a consideration and hopefully it would attract the public away from the remote areas and encourage them to use the fenced areas.
“Shark attacks are known to occur in many parts of the world. What do other countries do? I would like to know what other countries have done and whether they have been successful and we may find out when we meet with the Department of Fisheries.
“More research into shark behaviour is needed. We need to know why they are coming in so close to the shore. With these answers we may be better prepared to prevent further tragedies.”
Mr Buswell said he supported any measures that would make Geographe Bay and other beaches safe.
“I think it’s an issue causing a lot of concern in the community.”
The Department of Fisheries will also hold a public forum on sharks tonight from 5-7pm in the South Room at the Broadwater Beach Resort.
Department of Fisheries regional manager Michael Burgess said they would outline shark hazard responses and mitigation strategies and listen to the views of the local community views on the subject.
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