Aerial shark patrols in South Australia have been extended another four weekends. Photo: xiSerge/Pixabay
South Australia is extending its aerial shark patrols of beaches by another month amid warmer weather and shark sightings in popular areas.
The patrol extension will only be on weekends and will run until May 25.
Surveillance aircraft will continue to monitor beaches on weekends from North Haven to Rapid Bay, and on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula (Waitpinga Beach, east of Victor Harbor, to the Murray Mouth).
The government says the aerial fixed wing patrols, which began in November, were due to end on Sunday (April 27) before the decision was made to extend the season.
SA Emergency Services Minister Emily Bourke says the “eyes in the sky are one way to protect beachgoers”.
“Additional patrols will play an important role in keeping our coastline safe … we are supporting shark mitigation measures in remote and regional areas, working with Surf Life Saving SA.”
SES Chief Officer Chris Beattie says that after a risk assessment and well-publicised shark sightings at southern beaches, the fixed wing patrol will be extended another four weekends.
“Shark sightings that pose a risk to the public are passed onto SAPOL (SA Police) in accordance with the Shark Response Plan, who manage the response,” he says.
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The government says April has been marked by hotter than normal temperatures which attracted people to the beaches – and coinciding with shark sightings including at southern beaches.
The fixed wing aircraft is fitted with a siren to warn beachgoers when a shark is sighted and is marked with the words ‘SHARK PATROL’.
The state government is spending $500,000 on shark protection in regional coastal areas.
It is to help Surf Life Saving SA develop coastal risk assessments and implement measures such as:
- better signs at beaches, including shark sighting boards and flags; trauma kits at key locations; increased use of drones and drone training; education programs;
- Extend the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service to the regions, between Robe and Whyalla.
Sightings of sharks that may endanger the public should be reported to the South Australia Police as soon as possible on Triple Zero (000) or 131 444.
Sightings of large sharks that do not pose a threat to human life may be reported to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.
