Lifesavers want shark buoys along the coast

SURF Life Saving Queensland has called for shark drumlines to be placed outside popular river mouths to protect swimmers from potential man-eaters.

In a submission to the Senate’s inquiry into shark miti- gation and deterrents, SLSQ chief operating officer George Hill called for the addition of more shark buoys along the Queensland coast, in particular near river mouths where bull sharks lurk.

He specified Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast’s Mooloolah and Paynter rivers as “high-risk” locations.

“While rare, shark attacks in Queensland waters are a legitimate concern, and one which SLSQ remains committed to addressing in order to help deliver safer beaches to all Queenslanders,” he wrote.

Shark buoys often use baited hooks to catch large sharks.

Mr Hill said the call was about making Queensland beaches as safe as possible.

“We just want to take that extra precaution,” he said.

“The bull shark numbers are fairly high in Queensland and they are known to frequent river mouths, especially around dusk and early morning.”

There has not been a fatal shark attack at a patrolled Queensland beach since the introduction of shark nets and drumlines in the 1960s.

Since July last year, 27 sharks have been caught by nets or baited drum lines on the Gold Coast and 23 on the Sunshine Coast.

However, waters further north traditionally attract more shark activity, with 62 sharks caught so far this financial year off Townsville, while Mackay (34) and Bundaberg (28) have also seen significant numbers.