News & Alerts

Alert issued 16 March 2023

Alert level:

A shark WARNING has been issued for Cheynes Beach (Waychinicup) in the City of Albany after a reported shark interaction.  

Situation:

• The shark interaction was reported by a member of the public at approximately 9am on 16 March.
• At approximately 7:55am this morning, a reported 5-6 metre unknown species of shark has bitten a surf ski, knocking the female paddler into the water. This has been confirmed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
• The incident occurred approximately 100m offshore, in waters near the Cheynes Beach Caravan Park.
• To reduce the threat to people, Cheynes Beach will be closed by City of Albany Rangers and will remain closed for 24 hours, when the City of Albany will reassess the situation.

What to do:

• Take additional caution in the Cheynes Beach (Waychinicup) area.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA.
• Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app 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 land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed. 

What authorities are doing: 

DPIRD is working with local authorities to coordinate responses.

Extra information: 

Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow Surf Life Saving WA Twitter – www.twitter.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.