Have your say on shark nets

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton urges people to fill in the survey on shark nets.

Independent Noosa MP Sandy Bolton, in response to community concerns regarding whale entanglements, has opened a survey to gauge the views of Noosa State Electorate residents on the specifics regarding the use of shark nets at Noosa Main Beach.

This includes whether further trials of other shark control measures, as replacements, are supported by the community in efforts to reduce impacts to marine species.

“It takes just five minutes, with results from this survey forming part of our ongoing advocacy on behalf of Noosa to the Queensland Minister for Agriculture who is responsible for the shark control program.

“Your collective voice is powerful, providing reassurance to those making decisions that they are aligning to community expectations, whilst making provision for voices that may not agree with a majority view,” said Sandy.

Currently, Noosa Main Beach has standard shark nets in place, with shark-spotting drones being trialed, and other alternatives being tested in various regions that include, but are not restricted to, smart drumlines.

“With previous Noosa MP survey results indicating between 60 per cent and 75 per cent support for alternative shark control methods, this dedicated survey is important to establish a clear Noosa position on the specifics,” Sandy said.

Previous responses from State Government have indicated that support of key stakeholders including Noosa Council is vital in determining where trials and transitions occur.

The survey closes at 12pm on Monday 1 April and can be completed at bit.ly/NoosaSharkNetSurvey

“For residents needing a paper copy or who would like to make additional comments after completing the survey, please contact my office on 5319 3100 or via noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au Anyone who resides outside the Noosa Electorate should share their views with their local state member of parliament,” said Sandy.