Headlines:Cook Government Expands Shark Fishing Restrictions For Perth Metropolitan Beaches
PERTH, November 3, 2023 - The Cook Government has taken steps to address public safety concerns by introducing new restrictions on shark fishing gear in the Perth metropolitan area. Fisheries Minister Don Punch has authorized the prohibition of wire trace use within 800 meters of the shore at all Perth metropolitan beaches. These restrictions, effective November 3, 2023, cover the stretch of coastline from south of Mandurah (Tim's Thicket Beach) to 5 kilometers north of Two Rocks Marina, encompassing the Swan Canning Estuary.
This move follows a successful implementation of similar regulations at Port and Leighton beaches to South Cottesloe last year, which aimed to mitigate the risk of shark encounters in popular swimming areas. The new rules simplify regulations for recreational fishers who have been navigating complex and varying rules across local government areas.
The new restrictions specifically target shark fishing gear, leaving fishing for other species such as Tailor, Herring, or Whiting unaffected, as these species do not require wire trace.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development compliance officers will ensure that fishers adhere to the wire trace restrictions, as well as the existing bans on the use of burley made from mammal or bird products, like blood and offal. Regional locations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Cook Government is actively collaborating with regional and Swan River local governments to explore additional shark hazard mitigation strategies, which may include measures such as beach enclosures.
Fisheries Minister Don Punch emphasized the government's commitment to community safety and the need to eliminate incompatible fishing practices near swimming beaches. He called for the rescinding of inconsistent local government regulations and encouraged affected fishers to explore alternative gear options. He also underscored the importance of promptly reporting shark sightings to Water Police.
See also
- Animal:Shark Portal
- Category:Shark (interviews)
- Category:Shark (news)
- Category:Shark (reports)
- Category:Shark (research)
- Category:Shark finning (research)
Sources
- Shark fishing banned from all Perth beaches WA Government
Notes
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