Trauma kits, drone operator training and education programs in regional schools will be some of the measures funded through a new $500,000 package aimed at helping protect South Australians from sharks this summer.
The funding follows community feedback and advice provided by the Shark Taskforce and aims to help South Australian communities deliver projects to support safety and awareness of the potential for shark encounters in coastal waters.
It will also allow the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service to expand to the regions, covering community aquatic events between Robe and Whyalla to help keep participants and beachgoers safe, including the Long Cally Swim at Robe in December.
Meanwhile, the aerial surveillance of metropolitan community swims like the Brighton Jetty Classic and Jetty to Jetty Long Swim from Grange to Henley Beach will continue through Surf Life Saving SA.
The funding support will enable Surf Life Saving SA to provide a suite of measures in regional communities, such as:
- coastal risk assessments
- signage
- trauma kits
- drones
- drone operator training
- education program support for regional schools.
Earlier this year the State Government announced the formation of a taskforce to review current shark mitigation arrangements following multiple fatal shark attacks in SA waters.
The new measures have emerged from that important work, and address education, early warnings of sharks, and improved response tools.
These initiatives are in addition to the annual fixed wing aerial shark patrols of the highest-risk beaches, which returned this month and run until the end of April 2025 – with daily patrols covering metropolitan beaches from North Haven to Rapid Head.
Shark surveillance aircraft will extend to the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula – between Waitpinga Beach, east of Victor Harbor, and the Murray Mouth – on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.
Surf Life Saving South Australia CEO Damien Marangon said the efforts would enhance safety in remote and high-risk locations where the need for targeted shark mitigation measures was greatest.
"By focusing on these areas, we are addressing regional community concerns head-on and prioritising the wellbeing of residents and visitors alike," Mr Marangon said.
"Our goal is to work hand-in-hand with local regional councils and community groups to build lasting awareness and deliver safety solutions that reflect the unique needs of each region.
"Through this collaboration, we’re also empowering communities with the knowledge and resources to manage shark-related risks effectively."
