Shark drumlines return to waters around Townsville
Shark drumlines inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park around Townsville will return to the water by mid-February, following a funding agreement between the Federal and State Governments.
Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said drumlines that were removed in September last year in areas including Picnic Bay, Alma Bay, Florence Bay, Nelly Bay, Pallarenda Beach and Radical Bay, will be redeployed.
“This is a big win for people who live in and visit our region and want to enjoy our incredible coastline,” Mr Thompson said.
“I’m pleased that after nearly five months, the Queensland Government has finally agreed to a solution.
“This $4-million worth of funding will assist the State Government in adopting modern technologies including smart drum lines, drone surveillance, swimmer education and safety netting, while also reintroducing the standard drumlines.
“These measures will ensure that the Queensland Government will meet the requirements of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal decision.
“This is about putting people before politics, and ensuring we keep our community safe.”
The Queensland Government removed the drumlines in September last year, following a decision of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal regarding lethal shark control measures.
Background:
- In March 2017, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority gave permission for Queensland to maintain its shark control program.
- On 30 June 2017, the Humane Society International challenged the decision before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
- On April 2, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal imposed nine conditions on the program. The Queensland Government appealed to the Federal Court in May, with the Marine Park Authority a party to the case.
- On September 18, the Federal Court dismissed the Queensland appeal.
- On September 19, Queensland removed the drumlines from the water.
ENDS