Shark Nets

The Placebo Affect:

Once you understand the way shark nets work, it’s easy to see how ineffective they are. Sharks can easily go around or under, this results in 40 per cent of sharks being caught on the inside of the net, facing out to sea. This false sense of security has been in place since the 60’s, and at the cost of marine life and ecosystems.

Alternatives:

These are a just a few I know about but please head online and research new technologies for yourself – If you find anything of interest, please return to this blog and share your thoughts with us.
(Disclaimer: I’ve written the following as known options to mitigate shark ‘attacks’, they may or may not completely prevent shark ‘attacks’ and Salty Swims, nor I, hold any responsibility towards their effectiveness).

1. Shark Smart WA App – This app is currently in use in Western Australia. It combines shark activity information, beach safety information and weather forecasts, to help you plan your trip. Select your favourite coastal locations and use notifications to receive relevant updates and sightings as they happen.
   
   
2. Aerial Surveillance – If a large shark is spotted from the sky, life savers can be informed immediately to alert ocean-goers through flags and sirens on the beach. Recorded sightings can then be input into the Shark Smart App to help more ocean goers plan ahead and to record valuable information to help with scientists to better understand shark behaviour and assist future efforts to conserve.
   
   

   i. Drones – Operated by a trained pilot on the ground where real-time footage can be analysed.
   ii. Helicopter/Spotter Plane – Aerial patrols such as Western Australia’s Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter.
   iii. Spotter Programs – Trained staff are located at elevated positions, armed with binoculars and a radio. Just as they do successfully in South Africa.

3. Personal Shark Deterrents – Shark shields/ Shank Banz/ there is even a black & white stripped wetsuit that disguises it’s wearer to appear as a poisonous sea serpent to repel on-coming sharks – there’s a few brands and options online, so have a look around and research them properly.

   Do you live in Western Australia? A $200 rebate is offered to residents who purchase approved devices. One such deterrent device is designed to attach to a surfboard – the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+.

4. Be SHARK SMART & Educate yourself – The NSW Government gives this advice:

• Tell an on-duty lifesaver or lifeguard if a shark is spotted near swimmers or surfers.
• Don’t swim too far from shore.
• Swim in groups.
• Avoid swimming and surfing when it’s dark or during twilight hours.
• Avoid murky water, waters with known effluents or sewage.
• Avoid areas used by recreational or commercial fishers.
• Avoid areas with signs of baitfish or fish feeding activity; diving seabirds are a good indicator of fish activity.
• Do not rely on sightings of dolphins to indicate the absence of sharks; both often feed together on the same food.
• Be aware that sharks may be present between sandbars or near steep drop-offs.
• Avoid swimming in canals, and swimming or surfing in river/harbour mouths.
• Avoid having pets in the water with you.
• Do not swim/surf near or interfere with shark nets. (If marine life is caught within it, Sharks may be attracted to it).