All shark nets have been returned to Gold Coast beaches, with conditions now back to normal across the southeast.
The program equipment was removed from beaches last week, ahead of a weather system that caused dangerous surf and strong winds.
Nets from Rainbow Beach and all Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches, as well as drumlines from Ocean Beach on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) were removed.
Fisheries Queensland Shark Control Program Operations Coordinator Sam Fary says the program has been put back in place across the southeast.
“We keep a close eye on weather conditions and act as required to ensure swimmer safety through the SharkSmart campaign and the Shark Control Program, which operates at 86 Queensland beaches,” Mr Fary said.
“With the weather having improved, the easing conditions have allowed our teams to restore the equipment to the water.”
Mr Fary says the nets and drumlines are removed for safety reasons, and it’s not an unusual practice.
“It’s standard procedure to remove the shark control equipment when rough weather is forecast to prevent damage to it and avoid the chance of it coming loose and posing a danger to water users.
“Anyone who sees any unsecured shark control equipment including ropes, netting or buoys, should call the Shark Control Program Hotline on 1800 806 891.”
Fisheries Queensland is reminding beachgoers to be “SharkSmart” when heading out into the ocean.
Do your part. Be SharkSmart
- Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches and check signage
- Have a buddy and look out for each other
- Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk
- Reduce risk, avoid schools of bait fishing or diving birds
- Keep fish waste and food scraps out of the water where people swim
- Swim in clear water away from fishers
