Join today and you can easily save your favourite articles, join in the conversation and comment, plus select which news your want direct to your inbox.
Join today and you can easily save your favourite articles, join in the conversation and comment, plus select which news your want direct to your inbox.
The Liberal Government has pledged to install a shark barrier off Falcon Beach if re-elected, after months of pressure from the local community.
Premier Colin Barnett announced on Wednesday the government would provide $200,000 to the City of Mandurah to aid in the installation of a beach enclosure.
Dozens of surfers have paid tribute to shark attack victim Ben Gerring in a paddle-out off the Mandurah coast. Vision: 9 News Perth
The barrier would be the sixth State Government-funded protected swimming area.
Mr Barnett said the installation of shark barriers in Old Dunsborough, Busselton, Albany, Quinns Rocks and Sorrento had seen a dramatic rise in crowd numbers swimming at local beaches.
"The Government has invested more than $33 million on shark hazard mitigation measures including research, public education, shark tagging, aerial patrols and the SharkSmart website," he said.
"Beach enclosures are an important part of the strategy and are very popular with swimmers, surf lifesaving clubs and families."
Advertisement
The City of Mandurah would be responsible for selecting the type of enclosure and monitoring its installation.
The pledge comes after Liberal Dawesville candidate Zak Kirkup called on the State Government to install a shark barrier following the death of 29-year-old surfer Ben Gerring.
Ben Gerring was a much-loved part of the Mandurah surfing community. Photo: 9 News Perth
In November, almost 100 Mandurah residents attended a community meeting with the Premier to voice concerns about fish gutting practices on the shore at Avalon, and lobster pots dropped off Falcon Bay.
Shark barriers are considered a safer option than nets, as they are designed to avoid sharks and other marine life.Â