Recent publicity surrounding Great White Shark attacks and sightings emphasises the need for government to take a more innovative approach to the issue, said NSW Upper House Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“The NSW Government needs to look further than the flawed and destructive concept of shark nets. They would be better off beefing up early warning systems, investing in ways to enhance protection for individual water users, and creating safe swimming areas,” said Mr Cohen.
“Nor should we ever consider following the lead of the West Australian Government in allowing protected Great Whites to be destroyed.
“We can’t kill go around killing apex predators in response to a tragic accident in the shark’s own habitat.
“The NSW Government rejected calls by the Australian Aerial Patrol for the reinstatement of fixed wing aerial shark patrols over Sydney’s beaches this summer. These patrols will now resume, but only as a result of help from private investors. The Government cannot rely upon the private sector to pick up the slack every time it abrogates its responsibilities.
“As a keen surfer I have investigated electronic shark repellents. These create a small elliptical charge around a surfer or diver that deters sharks but does not harm them or other marine life.
“This technology has broader implications. It has been used to create a safety barrier for surfers waiting for waves in competitions, as well as by large government and educational organizations with a duty of care, such as military or police forces engaged in training exercises.
“The potential exists for this to protect our beaches as well, but it requires government to help fund the research.
This would be a better use of resources than hunting down protected species or relying on incomplete and ineffective nets that also trap and kill whales, turtles and other marine life,” Mr Cohen said.
Further Information: Michael Hidden 9230 3305 / 0431 320 085
Or Ian Cohen: 0409 989 466
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