Shark barriers employing primarily psychological tactics to continue post surfer fatality in Sydney harbor
In a tragic turn of events, a fatal shark attack occurred on Sydney's northern beaches at Long Reef Beach on Saturday, the eve of Father's Day. The victim, Mercury Psillakis, leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
The attack has led to a pause in a trial removal of three of the 51 shark nets in New South Wales (NSW). Nearby Dee Why Beach, known for its shark net approximately 500m out from its surf lifesaving club, remains closed today, along with Long Reef Beach.
The authority responsible for the removal of shark nets is typically the local maritime or environmental agency, such as a coastal management authority or fisheries department. However, it's worth noting that Long Reef Beach does not have a shark net, but "smart" drumlines are used to monitor for shark activity and were in the water when the shark attacked.
The shark nets, while intended to protect swimmers and surfers, have been a topic of contention. They only stretch 150m, do not extend all the way to the seafloor, and entangle other wildlife, according to Macquarie University natural sciences professor Culum Brown.
Toby Martin, a Dee Why local and former pro surfer, stated that Mercury Psillakis had been alerting other surfers to the shark before he was attacked. Martin, a local surfer, urged people to get back into the ocean despite the shark attack, emphasising that the ocean is a safe place.
Central Coast councillor Jared Wright reaffirmed "unanimous support" for participating in the trial, expressing a desire to use a mix of modern and innovative solutions. The councils and state government have been waiting for each other to nominate beaches where nets could be removed.
The Long Reef Boardriders Association held a memorial for Mercury Psillakis, who was "loved by everyone". Martin also told the ABC that the ocean is a safe place, and the attack should not deter people from enjoying it.
As the investigation into the shark attack continues, the community mourns the loss of Mercury Psillakis and looks forward to finding solutions that balance safety and the welfare of marine life.
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