More WA swimming spots to get shark nets following huge funding boost

Millions of dollars have been set aside in the upcoming State Budget to protect swimmers and surfers from sharks.

More swimming nets are set to be installed at Perth beaches, while helicopter patrols will be extended.

With only four shark-free swimming enclosures across the city, local councils are being encouraged to apply for a net.

However, with the cost of each net costing between $200,00 to $300,00, councils will need to prove they need one.

Fremantle mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge has been pushing for a net to be installed at Bathers Beach for months and says creating a safer swimming spot will be a major drawcard for tourists.

“There are a lot of people who just don’t want to go into the water, so creating a safe swimming area somewhere like Bathers Beach, right next to the iconic fishing boat harbour, we see as being a major tourist attraction,” Ms Fitzhardinge said.

More than $10 million will also be put towards funding helicopter patrols following a 35 per cent increase in shark sightings from the sky this summer.

Surf Life Saving WA’s Chris Peck said helicopters allow authorities to warn swimmers about a threat that might not otherwise be detected.

“We’re detecting sharks close to people where there might not otherwise be detection services and then we’re alarming them, we’re warning them that there is a threat and for them to get out of the water,” Mr Peck said.