Three new generation shark monitoring receivers have been installed on the iconic Busselton Jetty to expand network coverage and improve beach safety.
One existing sea-based satellite-linked receiver has been replaced with three land-based digital receivers which are attached to the jetty, expanding coverage across the Shark Monitoring Network.
The new generation receivers are solar powered and connected to the digital phone network instead of satellite.
The diagnostics of the new receivers at Busselton Jetty can also be checked and assessed remotely by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Shark Response Unit, leading to greater maintenance efficiencies.
Shark detections occur when an acoustically tagged shark swims within range of the receiver, providing land managers, relevant authorities and the public with near real-time alerts of tagged sharks.
There are a total of 37 shark monitoring receivers along the State’s coast, with three new generation receivers installed at Busselton Jetty, two at Bunker Bay and one at Port Beach, Leighton, Warnbro Sound, Swanbourne, Cottesloe, North Cottesloe and Mullaloo South.
The McGowan Government, as part of its comprehensive shark hazard mitigation strategy, has committed funding to upgrade the remaining 23 Shark Monitoring Network receivers along the metropolitan coast and in regional waters to the new technology this year.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
“We have worked closely with the City of Busselton and Busselton Jetty Inc on the installation of the new receivers, which will provide greater coverage across the beach and jetty area and support shark mitigation for events such as the annual Busselton Jetty Swim.
“We are investing more than $17 million into shark hazard mitigation, delivering a range of tools and strategies to enable Western Australians to enjoy the beach and ocean with confidence.
“It is fantastic to see Western Australians prioritising their beach safety by using tools like the SharkSmart WA app which has had more than 92,000 downloads and taking advantage of rebates to purchase an approved surf or dive personal shark deterrent device, with over 7,300 rebates claimed.”
