News & Alerts

Alert level:

A shark WARNING has been issued for Fourth Beach in the Shire of Esperance after a reported shark interaction.  

Situation:

• The shark interaction was reported by a member of the public at approximately 4:30 pm on 7 May 2024.
• A reported 3.0m white shark interacted with a windsurfer. This has been confirmed by an officer at Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
• To reduce the threat to people, Fourth Beach (BEN Sign E1401 – E1412) has now been closed by the Shire of Esperance and will remain closed following further assessment on 8 May 2024.

What to do:

• Take additional caution in the Fourth Beach 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: 

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (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 – twitter.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.