Shark nets: Qld Government doubles down spending extra millions on shark protection program off 85 beaches

AUTHORITIES have doubled down using shark nets and drumlines to protect beachgoers on the Gold Coast.

AUTHORITIES have doubled down on using shark nets and drumlines to protect beachgoers on the Gold Coast and across Queensland.

Today the Palaszczuk Government announced is would spend millions of dollars to further protect swimmers at the state’s most popular beaches.

Fisheries Minister Mark Furner said an extra $2.1 million will be spent over the next four years to meet the growing cost of the Shark Control Program.

A 3.2m female great white shark that was caught in a shark net at Sharpes Beach in Ballina.

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Mr Furner said an additional $731,000 will be spent annually on the program aimed at culling dangerous sharks offshore.

He said it will take the program’s total funding to $16.1 million over four years and $4.2 million per annum ongoing.

“The Palaszczuk Government remains steadfast in our support for the Shark Control Program,” Mr Furner said.

“It has undoubtedly saved lives and that’s why we will continue to support it.”

Mr Furner said the new funding would be spread across Queensland’s 85 most popular beaches.

An addition $731,000 will be spent annually on the shark netting program.

“This program that has been supported by successive governments since 1962,” Mr Furner said.

“While we continue to monitor emerging technology, the safety of locals and both domestic and international visitors to our beaches is paramount.”

Mr Furner said in the past 56 years there has been one shark attack fatality at a beach protected by shark nets.

“That is one too many but sadly, no measures are foolproof,” Mr Furner said.

“The safety of humans is the priority and any moves to remove the protections on our beaches will place lives at risk.”