Sandy’s advocacy has continued and since her dedicated Noosa MP survey in March 2024, the results were taken to the Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries as mentioned in our April 2024 Noosa 360 update.
Mentioned in the below response, an independent review is coming out by the end of the year and Sandy will be tracking any recommendations relating to the shark nets, and asks all to submit to the community consultation on any proposed changes, which we will be broadcasting once open. To subscribe to our newsletter to ensure you are notified, head to www.sandybolton.com/newsletters.
Per our October 2023 Noosa 360 update, changes will need the support of Noosa Council, which is instrumental in state government determining where trials and transitions occur, with examples locally being the delay in the current drone trial at Noosa Main Beach which was originally rejected by Noosa Council in 2020.
The following is an extract of the latest response from the Minister to advocacy:
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (the Department) has been undertaking trials and research into alternative shark bite mitigation technology to test the efficacy of alternatives in local Queensland conditions. An independent consultant has been engaged by the Department to undertake a wholistic review of the Program, taking into consideration results and evaluations from these trials. This review will also include public sentiment research and an assessment of cost-effectiveness of alternatives.
A report from the independent review is expected by the end of 2024 and will provide recommendations and advice to the Queensland Government on future options for the Program. If changes are recommended and supported, an implementation plan will be developed, which will include comprehensive community and stakeholder engagement regarding any proposed changes.
The Queensland Government continues to do everything it can to ensure the safety of water users at beaches while minimising impacts on other marine life.
The evaluation of trials to inform the independent review are nearing completion. The Department will continue to monitor developments in shark bite mitigation technology for future consideration. Please note the SharkSmart drone trial currently operating at Noosa main beach will continue until June 2025 while this review process is underway.
Sandy will continue working with local organisation Oceans for all Noosa and all other stakeholders.
Further Information
For our previous Noosa 360 updates on Shark Nets, please visit www.sandybolton.com/?s=Shark
To contact the QLD Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, email agriculture@ministerial.qld.gov.au and copy our office in via noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au and forward us any response you receive.
To contact the Noosa Council Mayor and Councilors, please find their information at www.noosa.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/927/contact-list-councillors