Great white shark tangles with crab pots at Semaphore Jetty.

A great white shark has terrorised fishermen at Semaphore on Sunday night, just days after the government announced a new program to reduce the risk of shark attacks.

Fishermen at Semaphore engaged in a Hemingway-esque tug of war with a great white shark on Sunday night.

The shark wreaked havoc for fishermen on Semaphore Jetty, slashing through fishing lines and breaking into crab pots.

In footage released by Seven News, the shark can be seen grabbing crab pots and dragging them through the water, as shocked bystanders watch and fishers desperately reel in their lines.

No incidents between the shark and swimmers were reported, but a witness said locals were patrolling up and down the beach on foot warning beachgoers to stay clear of the water.

A great white pointer has given jetty crab fishers a great fright at Semaphore. It is the latest in an increasing number of shark sightings along Adelaide’s coastline this year. #7NEWSpic.twitter.com/uSXpdhZ7RY

— 7NEWS Adelaide (@7NewsAdelaide) November 25, 2024

At the same time, two more sharks were spotted by a patrol plane 200 metres off Port Willunga beach in Adelaide’s south, capping a weekend that saw almost two dozen shark sightings reported to police.

The sightings come days after the government announced a new $500,000 package to reduce the risk and impact of shark attacks in South Australia this summer.

The shark attacked crab nets and fishing lines near Semaphore Jetty on Sunday. Picture: 7NEWS

The package includes educational programs and support for regional schools, drones, trauma kits, and increased signage.

It was described by Surf Life Saving CEO Damien Marangon as “empowering communities” to manage shark-related risks effectively.

The existing aerial surveillance systems run by Surf Life Saving SA will continue to cover SA’s suburban beaches, while the service will extend to the south coast of the Fleurieu on weekends, public holidays and school holidays.