Following a minor shark attack at Hyams Beach on Tuesday morning and increased shark sightings in the Jervis Bay area, Shoalhaven City Council are advising beachgoers to be vigilant and swim at their own risk.
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Shoalhaven City Council Manager of Environmental Services Michael Roberts said the Shoalhaven is has beautiful beaches for visitors to enjoy, but also provide important habitats for sharks.
"Surf Life Saving and the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) - Fisheries aerial patrols are reporting shark sightings, and beachgoers between Hyams Beach and Chinamans Beach are urged to be cautious in the coming days, with increased shark activity in the region," said Dr Roberts.
"Council have been coordinating with DPI Fisheries who have identified the presence of sharks close to the shore.
"We encourage swimmers to seek out patrolled beaches, to not swim at dusk and dawn when sharks are feeding."
Patrolled beaches in the area until Thursday, January 27, include:
- South Mollymook Beach (Golf Avenue)
- Shoalhaven Heads (McIntosh Street)
- Crookhaven Heads Beach
- Tilbury Cove (Ocean Street, Culburra Beach)
- Warrain Beach (Farrant Avenue, Culburra Beach)
- Cudmirrah / Berrara Beach (Sussex Inlet)
- Narrawallee Beach (Surfers Avenue)
- North Mollymook Beach (Beach Road)
For more information see Beach Patrols (shoalhavenssf.com.au)
Shark Smart safety tips include:
- Don't swim or surf at dawn or dusk as many sharks feed at this time.
- Consider using a Personal Deterrent Device
- Swim at patrolled beaches. Swim between the flags
- Don't surf or swim alone - always buddy up
- Be aware if you see diving birds and baitfish, sharks may be present, leave the water
- Avoid sandbars, river mouths and steep drop-offs - sharks could be present
- Don't swim or surf in murky waters
- Surfers: check conditions and assess the risks
- Respect the ocean - sharks are important for healthy seas
Home - SharkSmart (nsw.gov.au) for more information.
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