Shark nets in New South Wales are being removed earlier than usual and the government says it is trying to protect other marine life that could be caught.
Shark nets in New South Wales will be removed a month early this season as authorities try to strike a balance between protecting people and marine life.
Citing an increase in turtle activity in April, the state government will trial removing the nets on March 31.
It will also consult with shark management councils with a view to empowering local decision-making on net use.
Other tests include inspecting nets every two days instead of every three, and using more drones on days when nets are not inspected to look for turtles that may have become trapped.
Shark nets in New South Wales will be removed a month early this season (pictured: shark net on Mosman Beach, Sydney)
Authorities said they are trying to strike a balance between protecting people and marine life (pictured: a whale entangled in a shark net in Noosa, Queensland)
Lights will also be used in the nets to deter turtles in February and March, and dolphin alerts and whale alarms will be installed for the safety of these mammals.
Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said keeping beachgoers safe was the priority, but striking a balance that also protected marine life was key.
“Importantly, this year we have responded to community feedback and taken significant steps to increase the program’s protections for marine animals,” she said Wednesday.
‘As we design the future of this program, we will listen to local communities and consider the best available evidence to ensure we are striking the right balance on our beaches.’
Drone surveillance, listening stations for tagged sharks and drum lines will be used in the state’s $21.5 million shark management program.
The government said more than 2,000 sharks have been tagged and are being monitored by listening stations.
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