Letter to the Minister for Environment - Kellie's Support for a Permanent Shark Net

Published 18 June 2026

The Hon. Penny Sharpe

Minister for Environment

Dear Minister,

RE: PERMANENT NET AT NIELSEN PARK

I write to you in relation to the need for permanent shark nets year-round at Nielsen Park (Shark Beach).

Shark Beach is one of the most loved swimming spots in Sydney Harbour, and families across greater Sydney and beyond have been coming to Nielsen Park for generations to swim and enjoy the park.

There has been an increase in shark activity in Sydney waters this year, including the tragic death of 12-year-old Nico Antic at Shark Beach in January, and critical injuries suffered by swimmer and young mother, Leah Stewart faced earlier this month at Coogee beach.

These incidents have understandably shaken the confidence of local families, and I have heard directly from constituents who are now hesitant to swim at Shark Beach during off season removal of the nets between May to September.

A permanent net would remove this uncertainty altogether. It is a practical, common-sense measure that would allow families to swim at Shark Beach with confidence every day of the year, rather than only during the warmer months when the net is currently installed.

I understand the net has been removed annually for maintenance, and to protect it from winter swells, for almost a century. Given recent incidents, combined with increasing water temperatures, it would be reassuring to locals and visitors alike to have more permanent protection at this iconic and much-loved beach.

I also understand that NSW National Parks and wildlife have been investigating modern net design options that are ecofriendly and could withstand winter swells.

I would appreciate your advice on whether the government would consider the installation of a permanent net at shark beach.

I look forward to your response.

Kind regards,

Kellie Sloane

Member for Vaucluse

NSW Opposition Leader

Cc:

The Hon Tara Moriarty

Minister for Agriculture