2024-05-16 Notice of Motion - Cr Amelia Lorentson - SHARK CONTROL

Noosa Council extends an invitation to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) to present
their findings on the Shark Control Program. This presentation could be a valuable addition to the
Council report, providing comprehensive insights into the effectiveness and impact of the program.
The DAF’s expertise and firsthand experience with the Shark Control Program would offer a unique
perspective, potentially highlighting areas of success and identifying opportunities for improvement
for consideration by the Councillors.




                                                      9 May 2024

 Councillor Amelia Lorentson                          Date




COUNCILLOR COMMENT
Noosa Council is not responsible for managing shark nets or drumlines as it is the State
government's responsibility.
In September 2019, the Department of Agriculture & Fisheries (DAF) published the Queensland
Shark Control Program: Review of Alternative Approaches, which provides extensive data on current
shark protection devices, their bycatch, and potential future approaches.
The Queensland Shark Control Program aims to reduce the risk of shark bites by using shark nets
and drumlines across Queensland beaches. The program also conducts trials of new technology,
records all animals captured, and supports and conducts research to understand shark behaviour.
Noosa Council has no policy regarding shark nets, drumlines, and trials, and no previous report on
this matter has been presented to Council. It is essential to establish a clear policy position on this
issue as public opinion varies regarding the use of shark nets and drumlines. Some people prioritise
human safety, while others advocate for marine conservation. A clear policy can help balance these
perspectives and manage community expectations.
Noosa Council can play a significant role in advocating and supporting the Queensland Shark
Control Program by establishing a policy position. This way, Council can raise awareness about the
importance of the program. Noosa Council can also advocate for its clear objectives to the State and
actively engage in State-led trials and initiatives to drive the assessment and adoption of evidence-
based predatory species mitigation controls. And more importantly, advocate to ensure that the
program meets the needs and expectations of our community.
Also, the State Shark Control Program is expected to bring forward recommendations in June/July
2024. These recommendations may include replacing lethal drumlines with SMART drumlines and
phasing out shark meshing programs. Having a policy position would allow Noosa Council to respond
effectively to these recommendations.
Previous responses from the State government have indicated that the support of key stakeholders,
including Noosa Council, is vital in determining where trials and transitions occur.
Given these factors, it would be beneficial for the Noosa Council to have a clear policy position on
shark nets and drumlines. This would allow them to effectively engage with the community, respond
to State recommendations, and contribute to the ongoing discussion about shark control measures.
It’s important to note that any policy should be based on scientific evidence, community input, and a
commitment to both public safety and environmental sustainability.