Premier offers Shark Control Program expertise to NSW

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has offered the Queensland Government’s expertise managing a Shark Control Program, over the last 50  years, to New South Wales.

“Prior to 1962, there was a spate of shark attacks off Queensland beaches.  Since it began over 54 years ago, there has been one shark fatality off a beach protected under the Program,” the Premier said.

“I am determined to maintain the protection for swimmers off the 85 beaches up and down the Queensland coast.”

“My Government works closely with authorities in New South Wales sharing our expertise and information. I am extending a hand to a friend,  offering any assistance they request and possible adoption of our program into Norther NSW beaches.”

The Shark Control Program currently extends to the southern border of Queensland with equipment off Coolangatta and Greenmount beaches.

The Queensland Government’s Shark Control Program operates at 85 of Queensland’s beaches.

“We will always look for ways to limit marine life fatalities, but until new technologies are proven we will not compromise on putting the safety of swimmers and surfers first,” the Premier said.  

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is committed to investigating all avenues to minimise impacts on non-target species. It has established Marine Animal Release Teams on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and in Mackay.

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