$5.1 million delivered for Western Australia’s shark mitigation strategies

The Western Australian Government has delivered $5.1 million for shark mitigation strategies in 2022/23 which include new shark warning towers, daily metropolitan and south-west helicopter patrols and the installation of next generation detection receivers.

A solar powered tagged-shark detection receiver has been installed off Sorrento Beach and linked to a new onshore shark warning tower to improve safety at the popular swimming area.

It is one of four next generation receivers between South Mullaloo and Ocean Reef which are linked to new onshore Shark Warning System towers. The towers are equipped with lights, sirens and audio messages to alert beachgoers of tagged shark activity in real time.

The new receivers can detect sharks within a larger range and operate on the digital phone network instead of by satellite.

They provide detection information directly to the SharkSmart WA app, Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA) and the SharkSmart website.

City of Joondalup rangers can also manually activate any of the warning towers from a mobile device, following reported shark sightings in the area.  

The receivers at Sorrento, Mullaloo North and Ocean Reef have been repositioned to increase coverage and beach safety. The Mullaloo South receiver has not moved but has been upgraded with the new technology.

There are currently 37 tagged-shark detection receivers along the metro coast and in regional locations, including Albany and Esperance. Works will soon be completed to upgrade all of the State's receivers.

Daily helicopter patrols of Perth and South-West beaches begin on Saturday, 24th September. The metro patrols will fly daily until 30th April next year.

WA Fisheries Minister Don Punch notes "shark hazard mitigation in WA is a shared responsibility between the State Government and local governments, and I congratulate the City of Joondalup on its work to keep the community safe at their beaches.

"We have worked together to enhance the shark monitoring network in this area and through the installation of 65 Beach Emergency Number (BEN) signs to aid emergency response.

"Whether we are enjoying the beach, the water or chasing waves, we are thankful for the Surf Life Saving helicopter patrols, which amassed nearly 1,000 hours last season watching over the Perth and South-West coasts.

"When a SLSWA helicopter sounds its siren and hovers above a beach, it is time for everyone to exit the water for at least 60 minutes, because a shark has been sighted.

"With summer approaching, it is also very important to switch on your Sea Sense and follow the tips on the SharkSmart website and the SharkSmart WA app to keep informed about the latest reported shark sightings and tagged-shark detections.”

All shark sightings should be reported to Water Police on 9442 8600.

Image courtesy SharkSmart