Shark nets have been removed from all beaches across the Gold Coast ahead of this week’s impending wild weather.
A low-pressure system is expected to form off Hervey Bay on Thursday and intensify through Friday.
At the moment, the Bureau of Meteorology is only forecasting around 40 millimetres of rain for the Gold Coast, but the system is expected to whip up dangerous surf and strong winds.
It’s prompted Fisheries Queensland to remove all shark control program equipment from South East Queensland beaches as a precaution.
“A significant weather event is predicted to affect Rainbow Beach, and Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches from Wednesday and into next week, with winds predicted to be in excess of 35 to 40 knots, with 5.4 metres of swell,” Fisheries Queensland Shark Control Program Operations Coordinator Sam Fary said.
“Nets have been removed from Rainbow Beach and all Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches, and drumlines have been removed from Ocean Beach on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).
“We will keep a close eye on the weather and teams are ready to respond to re-install the gear, or check gear that couldn’t be removed, when the weather conditions allow.”
Mr Fary said removing the equipment was normal practice when rough weather was predicted.
“High seas can cause some equipment to come adrift, and loose shark control equipment can be a danger to swimmers and boats,” Mr Fary said.
“Swimmers are also advised to follow safe swimming practices, including swimming between the flags and not swimming at dusk or dawn, particularly with the shark control equipment out of action temporarily.
“In rough conditions, it’s important that people take advice from lifesavers and lifeguards as to whether they should go into the water.”
