Should the Bondi shark net be removed?
Published 01 August 2024
The NSW Government has announced that shark nets at Bondi Beach could be permanently removed. Coastal councils may have the choice to remove the nets in March 2025 if they can ensure the safety of swimmers and beachgoers.
There have been ongoing concerns about the impact of shark nets on marine life including turtles, dolphins, whales, and other endangered species.
Under the former Coalition Government there was an investment in technology to reduce the reliance on shark nets. A key element of this has been the rollout of SMART Drums. These send instant alerts when a shark (or something else) has taken the bait. This allows a quick response to the drumline. Other mitigation measures have included listening stations and drone surveillance.
Shark nets are installed at 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong from September 1 to April 30 each year as increased shark activity occurs during these months. The NSW Government will remove the nets a month earlier than usual under the new plan.
The last shark attack at Bondi Beach was in 2009 when a man was seriously injured while surfing. The beach was netted at the time.
There are many opinions on this issue, and I am keen to hear yours. Would you like to see the shark nets stay or removed?
CLICK HERE to fill out my survey.
As of the 27th August 2024 we had 422 responses:
- 211 wanted to REMOVE the nets (50%)
- 197 wanted the nets to REMAIN (47%)
- 12 were UNSURE (3%)
Below is a sample of the written feedback we have received.
Remove the nets:
- There is enough research regarding the detriments of shark nets for wildlife that I am surprised we still erect one in the summer.
- The shark nets are useless and harm sea life. It should have been removed a long time ago.
- Remove nets and increase safer methods such as drone patrols.
Keep the nets:
- Please do not remove the shark nets. Every extra layer of protection is so important to make sure that we are safe as we can be.
- With the number of shark attacks over the past recent years and considering the lifestyle of so many swimming board riding etc it seems a madness to consider removing the nets permanently.
