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Of the 375 marine animals caught on the shark nets from 2020 to 2021, 62 percent have died and 89 percent of these deaths were non-targets, as per the data released by NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI).  The nets caught just 40 of the intended species (bull, tiger, white sharks) but it was more common to see southern eagle rays (95), smooth hammerheads (60), and bronze whalers (38) trapped in the mesh. Twelve of 18 turtles caught on the nets also died within the said period.  

This has renewed calls from the Humane Society International Australia (HSI) and the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) to end the state’s Shark Meshing Program. Representatives of groups said that this strategy, developed over 100 years ago, has to be replaced with new technology to make the beaches safe for both marine life and swimmers.  

The HSI and AMCS are hoping that DPI will come up with a modern and sophisticated bather protection program that will be more effective at deterring targetted species.  

Lawrence Chlebeck of the HSI said that it’s heartbreaking to see marine animals dying every year due to the “false sense of security provided by shark nets.” He said that NSW needs to end these “indiscriminate deaths” as it contributes to the reduction of marine wildlife. 

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For years, advocates for marine life have been saying that shark nets do not work. Two high-profile shark bite incidents within this decade, which took place in Bondi and Avalon, occurred when the shark nets were in place in the water. The majority of the sharks caught on the net on the swimmers or shore’s side were also trying to get out and swim back to safety. 

Shark nets are usually deployed from 1 September and 30 April each year at NSW beaches stretching from Newcastle to Wollongong. To date, just six local councils have revoked the program and established non-lethal solutions like SMART drumlines. 

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