"The shark mesh nets do not act as a complete barrier to sharks reaching beaches as they are not permanently set in the water, do not cover the whole length of the beach, and do not extend from the water surface to the seabed. In fact, approximately 40% of shark entanglements occur on the beach side of the nets, because sharks are able to swim over and around the nets." - Report by NSW Fisheries Scientific Committee

The report goes on to say: "Shark meshing on Sydney beaches began in 1937 to reduce the numbers of sharks and thereby reduce the risk of shark attacks." 

These nets were specifically designed to entangle sharks, but the collateral damage is that 92% of marine animals caught (hundreds every year) are not target sharks.

Most of the sharks caught are not species that are considered dangerous to humans.  Grey nurse sharks are critically endangered and we have collected substantial evidence of over 40 individuals aggregating in Bondi. These nets pose significant risk to a population of shark that is on the verge of collapse. 

There are better ways to protect swimmers while ensuring that marine life is not harmed in the process. Non-lethal modern alternatives like drones are being used in Western Australia and abroad, so it is surprising and alarming that the NSW state government seems adamant to hold on to these outdated practices. Last year 98 people drowned in NSW. Using modern technology like drones also has the potential to help lifesavers spot swimmers in trouble while alerting beach-goers when sharks enter the area.

Visit www.savingnorman.com.au for more info