In an effort to enhance safety along the South Australian coast, the state government, in collaboration with Surf Life Saving South Australia (SLSSA), is introducing a range of shark mitigation measures. Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, announced that the first of these measures are beginning to roll out in regions most vulnerable to shark interactions.
This initiative follows the government’s commitment last November when it allocated $450,000 to SLSSA and an additional $50,000 to the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter for regional aquatic event coverage.
The funding has supported the completion of the initial Coastal Risk Assessments (CRA) at locations identified as high priority due to recent devastating shark attacks, specifically within the district council areas of Streaky Bay and Elliston. Similar assessments are currently being conducted on the Southern Yorke Peninsula.
Based on the CRAs, SLSSA has designated sites for new signage and enhanced shark warning systems, including the distribution of trauma kits at critical locations. As part of this rollout, the first set of trauma kits has been delivered to Streaky Bay and Elliston on the Eyre Peninsula. New information and warning signage have also been installed at Granites.
The new warning signs, designed to resemble a surfboard, provide room for community members to report the latest shark sightings. They are placed alongside a warning flag that will be raised when a shark is sighted, alerting beachgoers to the potential danger.
“It’s fantastic to see the first measures from the Malinauskas Government’s $450,000 regional shark mitigation package being rolled out to the coastal communities where it’s needed most,” said Scriven.
However, Scriven cautioned that no method can entirely eliminate the risk of shark attacks. She encouraged beachgoers to remain alert and utilize educational resources available on the PIRSA website.
Damien Marangon, CEO of SLSSA said, “For remote coastal communities like Streaky Bay — who have sadly experienced multiple aquatic tragedies in recent years — these tailored safety solutions are critical.”
SLSSA has helped establish a dedicated shark sighting community board and flagpole system to enhance real-time awareness for beachgoers. This system is designed to deliver clear alerts about current conditions and improve the safety of those visiting the coast.
As the rollout continues, additional signage and shark mitigation measures are expected to be implemented in Elliston and the Yorke Peninsula in the upcoming months, ensuring that beachgoers can enjoy South Australia’s beautiful coastlines with an increased sense of security.
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