Revealed: Shark nets could be removed from Gold Coast beaches under political plan
Shark nets could be a thing of the past on the Gold Coast if candidates from two political parties get their way. READ THE FULL REPORT
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CANDIDATES from two political parties want the shark nets pulled up off Gold Coast beaches despite the community’s safety concerns after the recent death of a surfer.
The Bulletin asked all candidates, following the death of real estate agent Nick Slater off Greenmount, whether the drum lines in place since 1968 should remain and what were alternative technologies.
The debate about beach protection is expected to surface when candidates from Burleigh and Currumbin on Wednesday appear in a Bulletin election forum starting at 6.30pm.
Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon said the government was committed to funding $1 million in research and a review.
But Animal Justice Burleigh candidate Scott Wallace told the Bulletin: “The shark nets and drum lines are nothing more than a marine life culling program, they are ineffective, unnecessary and not backed by science.
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“I’ve seen the wildlife that has been caught and killed off our coast first hand. We will promote educational initiatives and the introduction of viable non-lethal alternatives such as shark spotting programs and drone surveillance.
“We can simultaneously minimise risk to humans, whilst respecting and protecting marine life, the choice doesn’t need to be one or the other. “
“We need leaders who understand the importance of harmonious coexistence with animals and nature.
The party’s Coomera candidate, Daryl Prout, described the nets as a “shameful program”.
“Every time a whale is caught in these nets we potentially lose a life as well as our reputation here and abroad with tourists,” he said.
The Greens in a statement said the oceans were under pressure from climate change, pollution and overfishing.
Governments should give a high priority to “implementing non-lethal alternatives to shark control on the Gold Coast”.
LNP MPs in their responses agreed with the drum lines and nets remaining in place as other technology was explored.
One Nation also supported the Government keeping the current barrier protection while looking at “other techniques that will benefit both people’s recreational habits as well as marine life”.
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