Qld beaches lose shark nets as Cyclone Alfred moves closer
Shark nets and drumlines have been removed from Queensland beaches as Cyclone Alfred approaches, prompting safety warnings and reigniting debate over the effectiveness of shark controls.
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Shark nets and control equipment have been temporarily removed from several Queensland beaches as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, bringing the potential for dangerous weather conditions along the coast.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries said shark nets and some drumlines will be taken out of the water today at key locations as a precautionary measure to protect both marine life and infrastructure.
Affected areas include the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, North Stradbroke Island, Rainbow Beach, Bundaberg, and Yeppoon.
A spokesperson for the Shark Control Program said that the decision aligned with standard safety procedures in response to extreme weather threats.
Bureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist Felim Hanniffy said the main swells over the weekend would be up around Double Island Point but beaches around Brisbane would also be affected.
“The system is not going away in a hurry and is likely to menace the southern Queensland coast for several days yet,” he said.
“Today it’s making a bit more of a coastal appearance and we could see damaging winds
developing up around the northern Sunshine Coast.”
The Department spokesperson explained that the cyclone was expected to bring strong winds and rough seas, which could cause significant damage to shark control equipment.
To prevent entanglements, loss of equipment, and potential risks to marine life, the gear will be removed until conditions improve.
The department will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on when the equipment will be reinstated.
With shark control measures temporarily suspended, authorities are urging beachgoers to exercise caution and stay out of the water.
Swimmers are encouraged to visit patrolled beaches, swim between the flags, check safety signage, avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or in murky water, and stay away from areas where schools of baitfish are present.
Officials emphasise that public safety remains a priority and are urging residents and tourists to follow SharkSmart guidelines and pay close attention to lifeguard warnings.
The temporary removal of shark control equipment has once again sparked debate over Queensland’s Shark Control Program, which has been in operation since 1962.
While the program is designed to reduce shark attacks, conservationists argue that nets and drumlines pose a significant threat to non-target marine species, including dolphins, turtles, and whales.
Critics suggest that the removal of these measures during extreme weather exposes the vulnerabilities of the program and reinforces the need to explore alternative, nonlethal methods such as drone surveillance and personal shark deterrent devices.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will provide further updates on the reinstallation of the shark control equipment.
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Originally published as Qld beaches lose shark nets as Cyclone Alfred moves closer
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