Greens Spokesperson on Marine Environment and Fisheries and Member for Ballina Tamara Smith has welcomed a commitment of $250,000 in funding for surveillance, research and public education to help the Ballina community respond to recent shark activity on the North Coast.
Ms Smith said, “The community has been calling for support and this new money will help us to learn more about local shark behaviour and ensure the public has the best information to help reduce the risk of future shark incidents.
“I have sought a briefing from the Government on the details of the proposal and would encourage the Minister to actively 
engage with the local Shark Mitigation Advisory Group to implement this program.
“The community needs to be part of this process so we can help shape the program with local knowledge.
“It is important to note there is political consensus that culling sharks is not the answer and that culling and shark nets are not part of this program. Experience shows that research, surveillance and public education is the best way to keep people safe and ensure we preserve healthy and biodiverse oceans.
“I am still calling on the Government to hold some of the proposed trials of non-lethal deterrent technologies on Ballina beaches and am calling for the announced Shark Summit to be held on the North Coast,” Ms Smith said.
For more information: Justin Field 0439 205 835 – or (02) 9230 3653