‘Avoid the water’: Experts issue shark frenzy warning amid NSW’s wild weather

After weeks of wild weather, experts have warned of a potential new danger facing NSW beachgoers.

Beachgoers have been urged to “avoid the water” after recent wild weather increased shark activity along the NSW coast.

In February, Australians were stunned after diving enthusiast Simon Nellist was killed after being attacked by a large shark in Sydney’s Little Bay.

The death of the 35-year-old Wolli Creek man, who was about to be married and who was originally from the UK, sent shockwaves across the nation, becoming the first shark fatality to rock Sydney in almost 60 years.

Since then, a number of other shark encounters have made headlines.

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Heavy rainfall could increase shark risks.

In mid-March, two people were hospitalised after being bitten by a shark at Crowdy Head on the Mid-North Coast, and a Sydney man also recently took to social media to claim a shark “had a crack at him” while he was spearfishing around Maroubra.

According to experts, the apparent increase in shark activity could be the result of recent weather events.

NSW Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders told 7 NEWS that “after heavy rainfall when waters are murky, there may be an increased chance of encountering a shark”.

“This is because run-off and nutrients from the land run into our waterways and can attract fish and other animals to feed, which in turn can attract sharks,” he said.

“Reduced water visibility can make conditions ideal for ambush predators, like sharks, to hunt in.

“Our recommendation is to always avoid the water during these conditions.”

It is understood that heavy rainfall often pushes effluent and rubbish into waterways, which in turn can attract sharks and increase the risk to swimmers.

“It delivers a lot of nutrients into coastal waters, and that can sometimes attract particular prey species into the area,” he said. “Inevitably, you might get some predators coming in to feed on those fish as well.”

According to the NSW Government’s SharkSmart website, swimmers should always visit patrolled beaches, follow advice from lifeguards and stay within the flags.

A ‘Shark Sighted’ sign at North Narrabeen Beach on March 22. Picture: Manly Daily/John Morcombe

“Patrolled beaches may also sound shark alarms. You should leave the water as soon as an alarm is sounded or a shark is spotted,” the website states.

Beachgoers should inform a lifeguard if a shark is spotted, they shouldswim, surf or dive with others, and they should stay out of the water with any open wounds.

“Avoid swimming and surfing at dawn, dusk and night – sharks can see you but you can’t see them,” the advice continues.

“Keep away from murky, dirty water, and waters with known effluents or sewage.”

Originally published as ‘Avoid the water’: Experts issue shark frenzy warning amid NSW’s wild weather