Aerial beach patrols commence two weeks earlier in South Australia following shark attack

Aerial shark patrols have commenced two weeks earlier than usual at South Australia’s highest risk beaches following the recent attack at Port Noarlunga that left a 32-year-old woman with serious injuries.

The first week of December start date has historically aligned with increased beach activity with warmer weather arriving and school holidays commencing, however, the recent shark attack prompted a full complement of shark surveillance aircraft commencing on 18th November, to monitor beaches from North Haven to Rapid Bay, and between Victor Harbor and the Murray Mouth.

The fixed wing aircraft will fly daily until Easter over metropolitan areas, with flights to be extended to the south coast on weekends, school and public holidays, providing multiple flights over our highest populated and aquatic activity beaches.

The shark patrol flights support local business and pilot training, while putting eyes in the sky to protect beachgoers.

The fixed wing aircraft has the words ‘SHARK PATROL’ in large lettering on the wing underside and is fitted with a siren to warn beachgoers. In the event of a sighting that may pose a risk to the public, the aircraft will fly continuous orbits over the area and sound the siren, at which time people should immediately leave the water.

The aerial patrols have operated in South Australia since 2003.