SERIOUS SHARK THREAT at Surfbreak Lookout, near Falcon, south of Mandurah

01 June 2016

Department of Fisheries will set shark capture gear at SurfBreak Lookout, near Falcon, this morning after a shark incident on Tuesday afternoon resulted in a determination that a serious threat to public safety exists.

Situation:

A man received injuries, and is being treated at Royal Perth Hospital after a serious shark bite incident which occurred before 4pm on Tuesday.
An order has been issued by the Director General of the Department of Fisheries to deploy capture gear in the vicinity of the incident, to fish for the shark from first light today.
Given the nature of the injuries and the location of the incident, it is likely that a white shark, of 3-metres or more in size, is responsible.
The City of Mandurah has closed the beach.

What to do:

The beach near Surfbreak Lookout was closed immediately, and will remain closed until sunset Wednesday, when a further assessment will be made.
Water users are advised to avoid the Surfbreak Lookout location, and take additional caution in the surrounding Falcon area.
Keep informed of the latest detection and sighting information by checking the SharkSmart website or Surf Life Saving WA’s Twitter feed.
If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to response agencies and to the public on the SharkSmart website and Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed.

What authorities are doing:
Department of Fisheries is working together with relevant authorities to ensure people’s safety.

Extra information:
Keep informed of the latest detection and sighting information by checking the Shark Activity Map on the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity or the Surf Life Saving WA Twitter – twitter.com/SLSWA.

Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for current alerts and warnings.

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