Shark device bycatch plea

GOLD Coast scientists have praised State Government investment into shark research but have called on it do more to prevent wildlife becoming entangled in the traps.

The State Government yesterday announced $17.1 million in budget funding for the controversial shark control program, which uses nets and drumlines at 86 Queensland locations.

About $4 million will go towards research into new technology such as drones.

Sea World Gold Coast Marine Sciences director Trevor Long said he was pleased government was investing in alternative technologies but said changes to current practices were needed.

“We have a problem with the kill rates the shark nets and drumlines cause,” Dr Long said. “There needs to be a community summit where community groups can come together, review data and have their say.”

Last year, 102 animals were caught under Gold Coast shark control programs, of which 16 were sharks considered a danger to humans, according to Humane Society International (HSI).

The rest was a mix of dolphins, turtles, stingrays and non-dangerous sharks.

Dr Long said he wanted to see more shark nets replaced with drumlines in the shortterm because they had a lower kill rate.

“While drumlines are still a nasty piece of work, turtles and dolphins that take bait off a drum line can at least get up and breathe,” he said.

It became illegal last month for members of the public to come within 20m of a shark net in Queensland for safety reasons. The new rule means researchers will not be able to document bycatch.