This Sunday, September 1, a rally will be held at The Entrance Memorial Park protesting the NSW Labor Government’s decision to reinstate shark nets on Central Coast beaches this Summer.
Protesters say despite overwhelming evidence that the nets do not effectively protect swimmers and are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of innocent and endangered marine animals each year, the government has chosen to move forward with the “harmful practice”.
The decision to reinstate shark nets comes in the face of strong opposition from the community and significant support for a ban from the NSW Legislative Council.
Animal Justice Party (AJP) MP Emma Hurst put forward a Notice of Motion calling for a review of the shark net program, highlighting ethical and environmental concerns and advocating for more humane alternatives.
AJP candidate for The Entrance ward in the September 14 Central Coast Council election, Sarah Ryan, will speak at the rally alongside veteran Central Coast marine activists, Cathy Gilmore of Marine Wildlife Rescue and Ronny Ling from Dolphin Rescue.
“Getting shark nets out of Central Coast beaches is one the many reasons I am standing as a candidate in the upcoming local elections,” Ryan said.
“We must make our voices heard and fight for a safer, more compassionate approach to beach safety on the Central Coast.
“Drones are now capable of not only spotting sharks in the water, but they can identify breeds.
“If we had drones at every patrolled beach, we could monitor our beaches and alert swimmers of any sharks in the area, allowing swimmers and surfers to exit the water.”
The rally will be held at 1pm with organisers hoping for a large number of people advocating for effective, humane alternatives to shark nets.
“Together, we can help protect our marine life and promote beaches that are safe for everyone,” Ryan said.
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