Additional extension granted for South Australia’s Aerial Shark Patrols

Fixed wing shark patrols of South Australia's beaches were due to end next weekend, on Sunday 25th May, however unseasonably warm weather and an increase in shark sightings at popular beaches has led to a two-week extension for South Australia’s Aerial Shark Patrols until the June long weekend.

This patrol season, which was brought forward to early November and will run until Monday 9th June, will be the longest recorded in South Australia.

It is the second extension this season amid sustained aquatic activity and shark sightings in populated areas, including at southern beaches.

More than 450 flights have been conducted and around 1,200 hours flown since November.

It comes as Surf Life Saving SA rolls out trauma kits and shark sighting boards in regional communities as part of a SA Government shark mitigation package.

Volunteer surf lifesavers also provided critical assistance at Port Noarlunga after an attack on Thursday, including a Jet Rescue Boat and drone response.

Shark surveillance aircraft – operated by Platinum Aircraft Charter with crew trained by the SES – will continue to monitor beaches on weekends from North Haven to Rapid Bay, and on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula between Waitpinga Beach, east of Victor Harbor, and the Murray Mouth.

The additional aerial patrols follow risk assessments done in consultation with SAPOL, PIRSA and the SES.

The fixed wing aircraft is fitted with a siren to warn beachgoers when a shark is sighted and is marked with the words 'SHARK PATROL' in large lettering.

The aircraft siren has been activated more than 90 times this season, indicating that there were either people in the water or on the beach in the vicinity of the sighting.

Further support for regional coastal areas through the Government's $500,000 package is also being delivered, with the first trauma kits – specially designed for treating shark bites or similar injuries in aquatic environments – to be installed at Streaky Bay and Elliston after coastal risk assessments were completed.

A new shark sighting community board has been installed at Granites Beach, raising awareness of potential risks and enabling the public to report a sighting via the board's QR code.

Increased use of drones and drone training, education programs for school and community groups and an expansion of the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service to regional community aquatic events form part of the investment.

The Government will continue to work with Surf Life Saving SA on implementing mitigation measures following a post-season review.