25 October, 2023
Shark nets removed ahead of wild weather
- Shark nets to be removed from Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches due to high seas
- Removals to occur October 25 and 26
- High winds predicted with five metre swells across the weekend
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will remove shark nets from several south east Queensland beaches due to forecast high winds and rough seas.
The weather conditions create a risk of nets being dislodged and endangering swimmers and other water users.
The Gold Coast contractor will begin removing nets today, 25 October 2023, from Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Kurrawa Beach, Mermaid Beach, Miami Beach, Burleigh Beach, Tallebudgera Beach, Currumbin Beach, Bilinga Beach, Kirra Beach and Coolangatta Beach.
The Sunshine Coast contractor will begin removing nets tomorrow, 26 October, from Rainbow Beach, Noosa Beach, Coolum Beach, Marcoola Beach, Maroochydore Beach, Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba Beach, Wurtulla Beach and Caloundra Beach.
Drumlines will continue to be baited and the department will monitor the situation.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner:
“Our top priority is to ensure swimmers and beach users are safe,” Mr Furner said.
“When weather conditions are unpredictable the department assesses the risk and, in this case, the safest decision is to remove the nets from the designated beaches.
“It’s essential beachgoers read the boards, follow the directions of lifesavers and lifeguards, and swim between the flags.”
