An additional $88 million will be invested in an expanded shark control program across Queensland beaches.
State Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the new plan would commence in July and combine safety measures like shark nets and drumlines at more Queensland beaches, while prioritising technologies like drone surveillance and whale-deterrent measures.
Minister Perrett said the program included increased servicing of shark control equipment to 365 days a year, weather permitting.
“The Government will invest an additional $88.228 million over four years into the Shark Control Management Plan, with more investment into whale-deterrent technology and shark research and innovation to make Queensland a world leader,” he said.
Minister Perrett said seven beaches had been identified as potential candidates for drumlines or nets including:
- Gold Coast: Pacific Beach (net and drumlines), The Spit (drumlines).
- Sunshine Coast: Happy Valley (drumlines), Coolum North (net and drumlines), Peregian North (net and drumlines).
- Wide Bay: Elliott Heads (drumlines), Moore Park (drumlines).
He said six locations had been identified as potential candidates for expansion of the drone program including:
- Gold Coast: Rainbow Bay/Greenmount.
- North Stradbroke Island: Cylinder Beach.
- Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba.
- Moreton Bay: Tangalooma.
- Bundaberg: Elliott Heads and/or Moore Park.
- Agnes Water: Agnes Water Main Beach
“The identified beaches and locations will now be subject to further detailed assessment in conjunction with stakeholders, and expert scientists and further consultation will occur with communities.”
Minister Perrett said the locations had been identified based on Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) presence and data showing increasing beach use.
“We’re striking the right balance between ensuring swimmer safety and maintaining a healthy marine environment, as well as upholding Queensland’s international tourism reputation as a safe place to enjoy some of the best beaches in the world.”
He said qualified experts in marine fields were consulted for the KPMG Shark Control Program Evaluation Report.
“Recommendations from this report which prioritise human safety have been accepted as part of the Government’s new plan.
“The report found it’s likely shark control equipment, such as drumlines and nets, contributed to substantially lower shark attacks where it is operational.”
