Beach goers urged to swim with caution this weekend after shark nets removed

Shark nets and drumlines have been removed from all major South East Queensland beaches ahead of a powerful weather system forecast to hit the state this weekend.

Beachgoers have been warned to exercise caution when entering the water this weekend after shark nets and drumlines were today removed from all major South East Queensland beaches.

Shark nets have been removed from Rainbow Beach and all Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches, while drumlines were removed from Ocean Beach on North Stradbroke Island ahead of a powerful weather system expected to smash the southeast on Friday.

It comes as plans were revealed to roll out more drumlines along the Queensland coast under an expansion of the state’s Shark Control Program.

The program’s operations co-ordinator Sam Fary said removing the equipment ahead of rough weather was normal practice and the gear would be reinstalled as soon as it was safe to do so.

He advised those planning to swim in the ocean this weekend to avoid swimming at both dusk and dawn and to follow all directions from lifeguards.

“A significant weather event is predicted to affect Rainbow Beach, and Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches from Wednesday and into next week, with winds predicted to be in excess of 35 to 40 knots, with 5.4m of swell,” Mr Fary said.

“High seas can cause some equipment to come adrift, and loose shark control equipment can be a danger to swimmers and boats.

“Swimmers are also advised to follow safe swimming practices, including swimming between the flags and not swimming at dusk or dawn, particularly with the shark control equipment out of action temporarily.

“We will keep a close eye on the weather and teams are ready to respond to reinstall the gear, or check gear that couldn’t be removed, when the weather conditions allow.”

Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Felim Hanniffy said a “large and powerful” trough would deepen into a low-pressure system this week creating dangerous surf conditions from south Capricornia down to the entire south east coast.

“The low would develop a bit after the Central Coast and drift south and affect the whole South East Queensland coast,” he said.

“It will create dangerous conditions and has the potential to persist over the weekend and ease off as early as next week.”

Anyone who notices unsecured shark control equipment such as ropes, netting or buoys has been asked to call the Shark Control Program Hotline on 1800 806 891.

The bureau is expected to release specific dangerous surf warnings by Thursday.

TIPS FOR STAYING ‘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