Shark Warning Issued for Swan River After Bull Shark Detections Skyrocket
Authorities have issued a high-alert shark warning for the Swan River, specifically between Melville and Fremantle, following a dramatic increase in bull shark detections. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has reported that a tagged bull shark was identified up to 77 times by monitoring devices in the past three days, primarily between East Fremantle and Blackwall Reach.
Increased Risk at Popular Swimming Spots
Blackwall Reach, a popular swimming location in East Fremantle where people often jump off cliffs into the water, has been a focal point for these detections. Additionally, a bull shark was detected six times under the Stirling Traffic Bridge at East Fremantle between February 20 and 21. Bull sharks are known for their aggressive behavior towards humans and their ability to swim in fresh water for extended periods, making them a significant threat to swimmers in the river.
Historical Context and Safety Measures
This warning comes in the wake of the tragic death of 16-year-old Stella Berry in 2023, who was attacked by a bull shark under the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, less than a kilometer from the recent Stirling Bridge detections. Her death prompted increased shark tagging efforts along the Swan River, with data uploaded to DPIRD's Shark Smart website and app. DPIRD has emphasized that the latest detections could heighten the risk of interactions between sharks and river-users, advising "additional caution" when entering the water.
Beachgoers are urged to comply with any beach closures that may be implemented by rangers or Parks and Wildlife officers. The public is encouraged to report shark sightings to the Water Police on 9442 8600, which will be forwarded to local government authorities and updated on the SharkSmart platform. DPIRD continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety.
