News & Alerts

Situation:

• A white shark has been detected 8 times over the last 7 days (26 July - 1 August) in the Perth metropolitan area.
• It is possible that the duration of the recent detections may indicate an increased likelihood of encountering a shark in this area.
• The pattern of activity may indicate the presence of environmental attractants.
• Environmental conditions which attract tagged sharks, may also attract other sharks, so water users should stay informed of the latest shark activity reports.
• Shark alert advice issued for the areas Port Kennedy and Yanchep due to whale carcasses earlier in the week, remain in place.  Although the carcasses have been removed, residue from where the carcass was beached may still attract sharks to these area.

What to do:

• Obey beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers or Surf Life Saving WA.
• Take extra caution in Perth Metro waters between Leighton and Sorrento Beach.
• During winter months, many beaches are not patrolled fulltime, so water users need to take responsibility for their actions by staying up to date with the latest information.
• 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:
Fisheries officers will continue to monitor the situation. To keep people safe, beaches may be closed.

Extra information:
It is not uncommon for sharks to be present off the coast throughout the year.  

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.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development comprises the former departments of Agriculture and Food, Fisheries and Regional Development, together with the staff of the Regional Development Commissions.