LOCAL surfers and swimmers are reminded to keep vigilant after a reported sighting of a large, possibly great white shark at Cobblestones surf break south of Gracetown last Thursday.
Department of Fisheries Southern Region compliance manager Steve Embling said he spoke to a Bunbury man who saw the shark several times while he was out surfing.
“The man described the shark as being five to six metres long,” Mr Embling said.
“It was reportedly less than 100 metres offshore and not far along the coast from where a surfer was killed in a shark attack in July 2004.”
Mr Embling said research shows that great white sharks can and do travel large distances, so it may have already left the area.
However, they can take up residency for short periods so surfers and swimmers should remain alert at all times to the potential of sharks being around.
“We regularly remind people that they should call the Water Police on 9442 8600 if they see a shark,” he said.
“The Water Police can then assess the public safety risks and trigger WA’s shark hazard response plan, so the appropriate resources can be deployed to assist.
“The Department of Fisheries works together with police and other Government agencies as well as local councils and Surf Life Saving and other volunteer groups to respond to shark hazards.
“We also ask people to be mindful of their own safety as well.”
Some precautions to reduce the risk of shark attack are to: swim between the flags at patrolled beaches; avoid time in the water around dusk and dawn, when there may be an increased risk of shark attack; avoid areas where there are large schools of fish, or other potential shark prey, such as seals; avoid areas where animal, human or fish waste enter the water;avoid deep-water channels or drop-offs nearby; do not remain in the water with bleeding wounds; andif you see a shark, leave the water quickly and calmly.
Avoid excessive splashing or noise.
Shark safety information is available online at www.fish.wa.gov.au