It is going to become safer to go for a swim off the Clarence and Richmond Valley’s pristine beaches thanks to new investment against shark attacks by the NSW Government, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.

“The NSW Government is investing $8 million in world-leading shark management technologies up and down the NSW coast,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“This includes drones at Airforce Beach, Evans Head and Main Beach, Yamba, SMART drumlines between Lennox Head and Evans Head as well as shark listening stations.”

Mr Gulaptis said the drones were operated in partnership with local Surf Lifesaving Clubs.

“These measures will give not only beachgoers, but holiday makers and the community the confidence to move forward with their travel and holidays plans,” Mr Gulaptis said.

The 2020/21 NSW Shark Program includes:

•  Drone surveillance at 34 key swimming locations
• 35 SMART drumlines in high risk locations on the North Coast
• 21 VR4G listening stations along the NSW coastline
• The continuation of the Shark Meshing Bather Protection program, which has run since 1932, at 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong
• Community awareness and education programs

Read our previous article on how our Surf Life Savers are using AI Technology to spot Sharks: www.clarencevalleynews.com.au/lifesavers-use-ai-technology-to-spot-sharks