Shark net removal trial set for one Central Coast beach this Summer

A trial to remove shark nets from one Central Coast beach this Summer has been welcomed by marine scientists, conservationists and a growing chorus of local leaders, as the State Government moves to modernise its shark management strategy.

The NSW Government last week invited three councils, Central Coast, Waverley and Northern Beaches, to nominate one beach each to participate in the trial.

Central Coast Council has confirmed it will nominate a beach within the region, with details expected in the coming weeks.

Currently, shark nets are installed seasonally at 11 beaches across the Central Coast local government area, typically from Spring through to late Autumn.

Last year, the nets were removed earlier than usual, on March 31, in a bid to reduce harm to migrating turtles, a move applauded by environmental groups.

Introduced in the 1930s, shark nets have long been criticised for their impact on marine life, with many so-called “non-target” species, including dolphins, turtles, rays and small sharks becoming entangled in the mesh.

The nets, which don’t create a full barrier to the shore, are increasingly seen by experts as outdated and ineffective.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has been particularly vocal about phasing out the nets on the Coast, arguing that modern technologies like drone surveillance, listening stations, and SMART drumlines, where sharks are tagged and released, offer better protection without the ecological cost.

“Shark nets are a legacy from a bygone era. We now have better tools to keep swimmers safe and protect marine life,” Crouch said.

Central Coast councillors from across the political spectrum have expressed support for the move, reflecting widespread community concern about the ecological toll of the netting program.

The shark net trial will run over the 2025/26 Summer swimming season and will be monitored closely.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries will continue to operate its broader shark management strategy, which includes aerial surveillance, shark tagging, community education and real-time alerts to lifeguards.

More details on which beach will be selected for the trial are expected following Council’s next meeting.

With 15 patrolled beaches along the Central Coast and Terrigal, Avoca, Copacabana and Umina Beach being among our most busy, Central Coast Councillor Jared Wright said before the trial beach is chosen and any nets are removed, appropriate alternatives such as drones must be in place.

Which Central Coast beach do you think should be nominated for the trial?

Have your say in our poll on the Coast Community News Facebook page and on our website www.coastcommunitynews.com.au