The recent fatal shark attack on surfer Mercury Psillakis at Long Reef in Sydney has prompted renewed discussions on the use of shark nets. While some beachgoers support these measures for safety, conservationists argue that the nets harm marine life and provide a false sense of security. With Australia leading the world in fatal shark attacks, alternative safety methods like drones and eco-barriers are being considered, despite the ongoing reliance on traditional shark netting programs.
The ocean has always been a big part of Glen Butler's life. He's been a surfer for 50 years and, in that time, he says he rarely thought about sharks. You're aware you're stepping into their environment, so you're cautious, the 61-year-old told the BBC. However, Mr. Butler's confidence was shattered last month when fellow surfer Mercury Psillakis was killed by a great white shark just minutes after Mr. Butler got out of the water. It's shaken us up a bit, he admits. Mercury and his twin brother Mike were well-known in the local community, and the tragedy has revived debates about beach safety in New South Wales (NSW).
Authorities in NSW employ various strategies to mitigate shark attack risks, but the most controversial are the shark nets rolled out during summer at many beaches. While conservationists argue the nets do harm to marine life and fail to significantly deter sharks, many beachgoers continue to support them for perceived safety. Australia, home to some of the world's best beaches, faces an increasing perception of risk associated with daily swimming and surfing activities.
The recent attack has also led to inquiries into the effectiveness and impact of shark nets, which have been in use since 1937. These nets are typically not effective barriers, leading experts to compare them to a napkin in a pool. In the wake of this tragic event, there is a movement towards exploring alternative shark safety measures, including drone surveillance and eco-barriers that aim to protect swimmers while minimizing harm to marine life. As the debate intensifies, the future of shark nets remains uncertain.
