Shark Warning System upgrade in time for summer

01 November 2024

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will replace the three automated shark warning towers along the Esperance coast in the lead up to summer to enhance beach safety.

DPIRD has been working with the Shire of Esperance to address technical issues with the local shark warning towers which are reaching their end of life, as well as discussing other cooperative arrangements to enhance shark hazard mitigation in the area.

DPIRD will provide $45,000 for the new beachside towers at Twilight Beach, West Beach and Kelp Beds to continue alerting beachgoers to the presence of tagged sharks.

In a joint agreement, DPIRD will provide the tower infrastructure, installation and connectivity, and the Shire of Esperance will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and operation.

DPIRD Shark Response Unit Manager Michael Burke said the land-based shark warning towers worked with the department’s shark monitoring network of receivers in the water to further enhance safety.

“When a receiver detects a tagged shark, it automatically triggers the adjacent beachside tower's flashing lights, siren and audio message, which will operate for at least one hour after the detection,” Mr Burke said.

“Local Government rangers and DPIRD officers can also manually activate the towers when public shark sightings are reported.

“We continue to build on our comprehensive shark hazard mitigation strategy so that people can continue to enjoy WA's beaches and ocean with confidence."

Esperance Shire President Ron Chambers said I want to thank the Minister and department for working with us on this fantastic outcome for our community safety.

“While these towers alert beachgoers of tagged sharks, I want to remind people to report all shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600 so they can be reported through the SharkSmart WA app,” Mr Chambers said.

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