A Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development shark drumline trial has reached a 12-month milestone, with the State’s Chief Scientist to examine the findings of the non-lethal shark relocation initiative.
The scientific trial to catch, tag and relocate white sharks began in February last year to assess the effectiveness of drumline technology in reducing the risk of shark attacks.
Minister for Fisheries, Peter Tinley said the Department was currently retrieving the 240 seabed VR2 receivers which contained the first 12 months of data from tracking the movement of tagged sharks in the trial.
“Data downloaded from the receivers, along with information from the pop-up Satellite Archival Tags, will be provided to Chief Scientist, Peter Klinken to form part of his independent assessment into the effectiveness of the trial,” Mr Tinley said.
“Replacement seabed VR2 receivers are in place to capture additional data from the drumline trial over the next three months.”
He said the Chief Scientist’s report would assist in making a science-based assessment of the potential application of the drumlines in Western Australia.
“Western Australia has one of the most comprehensive shark mitigation strategies in the country, ensuring we have the information we need to enjoy the water safely,” Mr Tinley said.
“The non-lethal drumline trial is part of this strategy, and I look forward to receiving the Chief Scientists’ report.”
