Northern NSW shark net trial ends early

SHARKS nets have been removed from northern NSW beaches, putting an early end to the second shark net trial in the region. And the reason behind the decision is at odds with the Gold Coast’s stance.

SHARKS nets have been removed from northern NSW beaches because of an early start to the annual humpback whale migration.

The NSW Government made the announcement today which signals an early end to the second shark net trial in the region.

The latest trial has been underway for about five months at beaches in Ballina including Lighthouse Beach, Sharpes Beach, Shelly Beach and Seven Mile Beach at Lennox Head and Evans Head Beach.

Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair said the department had been monitoring the

whale migration along the east coast and the risk of an entanglement was too great.

SHARK FILMED INSIDE SWIMMING ENCLOSURE

“The risk of a whale being caught in the nets is unfortunately too high and therefore it

is important we remove the nets a month early,” Mr Blair said.

He said drum lines would remain in place and urged beachgoers to practise caution when visiting the beach.

“The weather is still warm and I know plenty of people are still enjoying our beaches each day,” Mr Blair said.

A 3.2-metre-long female great white shark that was caught in a controversial shark net at Sharpes Beach in Ballina on the NSW north coast. (AAP Image/NSW Department of Primary Industry)

“I encourage all beachgoers to check the signs, avoid dark turbid and murky waters and avoid swimming and surfing near schools of baitfish.”

Rough weather caused interruptions to the trial and pushed the end of the trial back to June after it was due to finish in May.

A humpback whale calf entangled in shark nets off the Gold Coast. Pic: Seapix