A number of incidents have occurred where lifeguards have interfered with shark control equipment without the knowledge of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol.
LIFESAVERS ARE ADVISED THAT NEW LAWS BROUGHT IN ON 28 MAY 2019 MAKE IT ILLEGAL TO BE WITHIN 20METRES OF ANY SHARK CONTROL APPARATUS. THE OFFENCE DOES NOT APPLY TO A PERSON ON A BOAT THAT TRANSITS DIRECTLY THROUGH THE EXCLUSION ZONE WITHOUT STOPPING. THEY SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH ANY EQUIPMENT OR ASSIST IN ANY SITUATION UNLESS IT IS AT THE REQUEST OF, OR IN CONJUNCTION WITH QUEENSLAND BOATING AND FISHERIES PATROL OFFICERS OR THE SHARK CONTRACTOR OR IN THE PREVENTION OF LOSS OF HUMAN LIFE.
If you see any loose equipment particularly in the surf zone or any marine animals trapped, lifesavers should notify Surfcom who will liase with the relevant authorities and provide instructions as received.
For further enquiries telephone your local office of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol office. For more information on the program visit DAF Website
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