Leslie Williams, Member for Port Macquarie, said, “Our beaches are synonymous with summer, so we want to ensure we are using all the tools available to us to keep our beachgoers safe.” 

“The drones will enhance the already significant capacity of our lifeguards and lifesavers to increase protection for beachgoers from sharks and other beach hazards, beginning September 21.”

Mrs Williams said this collaborative drone trial is fantastic news for beachgoers and lifeguards in Port Macquarie.

“This partnership has enabled SLS to train more than 300 pilots from Tweed to Eden, develop standard operating and communication procedures, increase their member base, and provide further opportunities for community engagement and increasing safety at our beaches.” 

“Our lifeguards work tirelessly over the warmer months, so I’m delighted that they will be supported with the latest available technology to help keep beachgoers safe.

“For families and friends who love to head to the beach during the warmer months, they can feel safe in the knowledge that as much as possible is being done to protect them from sharks and other beach hazards,” Mrs Williams said.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said this trial under the NSW Government’s five-year Shark Management Strategy is a glimpse into the future of beach safety. 

“This technology will give our lifesavers and lifeguards additional surveillance capabilities, and is using measures endorsed by the local community,” Mr Marshall said. 

“In the last season’s trial, drones flew more than 25,000 kilometres and over 8,000 flights, observed approximately 350 sharks, and cleared our beaches on 48 occasions.”

Further details and schedules are available on the DPI website at: www.sharksmart.nsw.gov.au