2017-10-24
Surfers’ views sought on shark deterrent rebates
Media Release
Greens MLC Diane Evers is seeking feedback from surfers in Western Australia’s south-west region about the Government’s rebate for personal shark deterrents.
“I would like know more about why teenagers and young adults, who generally have a high level of participation in ocean sports, aren’t applying in greater numbers for the $200 rebate,” Ms Evers, who is the WA Greens’ Marine Spokesperson, said.
“One explanation may be that the rebate is only currently approved for purchases of the Shark Shield FREEDOM 7™, which is marketed for use by divers, spear fishers and kayakers, but not for surfing.
“Another reason could be that even with the rebate, the device is too expensive for people on low incomes – in which case, I’d be interested in exploring whether deterrents could be made available on a low-cost hire or borrow basis.
“No product can guarantee 100 per cent protection, but using a tested personal shark deterrent is one step that will significantly reduce the chance of a dangerous shark interaction, along with checking the SharkSmart website for recent shark activity before going into the ocean; following Surf Life Saving WA’s Twitter feed; and understanding water temperature and fish aggregations or other food sources as factors influencing the likelihood of large sharks being present.
“I look forward to a time when tests have been so completed so that the rebate is available for deterrents with other applications, especially surfing.”
Ms Evers added that she was intrigued by a relatively low uptake for the rebate in the Margaret River region, perhaps reflecting the region’s surfing focus.
“I urge people to contact my office with feedback about the rebate and how it could be improved by calling T 9486 8070 or emailing southwest.evers@mp.wa.gov.au.” she said.
Fact file (full data on rebate recipients by age and postcode, available on request):
- Postcodes of rebate applicants show just 10 people in the Margaret River, Yallingup and Dunsborough area, and a further 7 people in Busselton, had applied for the rebate as of 28/9/2017.
- In comparison, 24 people living in Bunbury and Eaton had applied; 17 in Geraldton, 15 in Albany and Denmark; 15 in Mandurah and Dawesville, and 12 people in Esperance.
- In the metropolitan area, the rebate has been particular popular in coastal postcodes, although recipients include inland residents too.
- The postcode with the single highest take-up (25 applicants) was ‘6125’, which covers some of Perth’s inland southern suburbs.