A concerning series of bull shark sightings has been reported across beaches from Wollongong to the South Coast, prompting immediate safety responses and warnings from local authorities. In just one day, four separate shark sightings were logged, raising alarms for swimmers and beachgoers during the summer season.
Multiple Sightings Reported Across the Region
The first alert came via the community-based shark alert app, Dorsal, which reported a shark sighting at Wollongong City Beach at 10.57 am. This was followed by sightings of a bull shark at Husskison Beach at 8.02 am and at Hyams Beach at 1.18 pm on the South Coast. Additionally, social media posts indicated a bull shark was seen at Bombo Beach near Kiama, adding to the growing list of incidents.
These sightings were not limited to the water. Deeanne Carr and her family made a disturbing discovery at Port Kembla's Fishermans Beach, where they found the fins and liver of a bull shark washed ashore. "We're there every morning, and we've never witnessed anything like that," Ms Carr said. She expressed concern that such remains could attract more sharks to the area, noting that while she wasn't pointing fingers, the situation was alarming for families, including children who were asking about the safety of the water.
Safety Measures and Beach Closures Implemented
In response to the increased shark activity, several safety measures have been put in place. Organisers of the upcoming Wollongong Aquathon have reassured participants that enhanced safety protocols will be enforced. Meanwhile, Bulli Surf Club has announced it will deploy an extra inflatable rescue boat and a drone during its junior Nippers session on Sunday to monitor the waters closely.
Beach closures have already occurred, with Bulli and Woonona Beach both shut for over an hour on Wednesday, January 21, between 12.40pm and 2 pm due to a shark sighting. A spokesperson for Wollongong City Council emphasised the importance of swimming only at patrolled beaches and following instructions from lifeguards and lifesavers. They urged the public to report any shark sightings to lifeguards or emergency services if there is an immediate threat.
The council's protocols involve lifeguards using personal watercraft, aerial surveillance, and monitoring technologies like the NSW Government SharkSmart app to verify and respond to shark activity. When a shark is confirmed near swimming zones, beaches are closed, with flags lowered and signage posted to alert the public.
Expert Advice for Swimmers
Surf Life Saving Illawarra duty officer Anthony Turner provided key safety tips for beachgoers. "The first thing we always tell people is to swim between the red and yellow flags, just for the fact that the conditions are being monitored for rip currents and any marine life," he said. He highlighted the use of roving patrols, jet skis, inflatable rescue boats, and UAV drones as part of their marine life strategies.
Mr Turner and Surf Life Saving NSW advise swimmers to avoid the ocean at dawn and dusk when sharks are more active, stay out of murky water, and choose patrolled locations. "Always tell a lifesaver or lifeguard if you see a shark so lifesavers can deploy inflatable rescue boats, jet skis and drones to search the area," he added, stressing the importance of exiting the water calmly if alarms are activated.
Taronga Conservation Society Australia, which maintains the Australian Shark Incident Database, also recommends:
- Swim, surf, and dive with other people
- Avoid swimming well offshore, near offshore channels, or along drop-offs
- Do not swim near people fishing or spearfishing
- Avoid entering the ocean near a river mouth, especially after a storm
- Leave the water if schooling fish gather in large numbers
Legal and Environmental Context
It is important to note that bull sharks are not a protected species in New South Wales, unlike tiger and white sharks. However, the Department of Primary Industries states it is illegal to fillet a fish until "well away from the water," which may relate to incidents like the discarded shark parts found at Fishermans Beach. This highlights the need for proper disposal to avoid attracting predators.
As summer continues, authorities are urging vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to minimise risks while enjoying the region's beautiful coastline.
