With a concerning increase in shark attacks along the NSW coastline over the past week, the rollout of shark spotting drones to surf board rider clubs must be urgently fast tracked, Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer said today.
Mr Dwyer said recent incidents had once again highlighted the need to use every available tool to improve safety for swimmers, surfers and coastal communities.
“Just prior to Christmas, the NSW Government announced a $2.5 million funding boost to strengthen shark mitigation measures along the coast, including funding for additional drone capability,” Mr Dwyer said.
“While I very much welcome this funding commitment, it is critical that the drones are purchased and deployed as quickly as possible, with training provided to ensure they are operating at maximum capacity during peak summer conditions.”
Mr Dwyer said surf lifesaving clubs and board rider clubs play a vital role in keeping beachgoers safe and are well placed to operate shark spotting drones effectively.
“Drones are a proven and non lethal tool that can spot sharks early and alert swimmers and surfers before an incident occurs,” he said.
“Expanding drone coverage will significantly enhance our ability to monitor coastal waters in real time, particularly during busy holiday periods when our beaches are at their most crowded.”
Mr Dwyer said coastal communities such as those on the Mid North Coast Port Macquarie relied heavily on tourism, and maintaining confidence in beach safety was essential for both public safety and the local economy.
“People should be able to enjoy our beaches with confidence,” he said.
“Fast tracking the rollout of these drones is a practical, sensible step that will help reduce risk, support our lifesavers, and provide peace of mind to locals and visitors alike.”
Mr Dwyer said he would continue to advocate for improved shark mitigation measures and called on the NSW Government to ensure the funding already announced delivers real, on the ground outcomes as soon as possible.
“Every summer we see the same pressures on our coastline,” he said.
“We now have the technology and the funding, what we need is urgency in delivery to help keep people safe in the water.”
