Member for Pittwater, Jacqui Scruby, has welcomed the extension of Surf Life Saving NSW’s daily drone surveillance program through to 30 June 2026, while calling for continued expansion of shark surveillance and mitigation measures across all Pittwater beaches.
The drone extension forms part of the NSW Government’s $6.7 million enhancement package for the 2025/26 Shark Management Program, including $4.2 million dedicated to shark mitigation measures and drones.
Daily drone surveillance will continue at key Northern Beaches locations including Avalon/Bilgola/Newport Headland, Dee Why Beach to Dee Why Lagoon, and North Steyne Beach from Queenscliff to Manly.
Ms Scruby said the announcement was a positive step, but more needed to be done to improve coverage and real-time information sharing for ocean users across Pittwater.
“Any investment in shark surveillance technology is welcome, and it is positive to see this funding complemented by the recent additional $650,000 investment supporting boardrider drone surveillance initiatives across the Northern Beaches,” Ms Scruby said.
“Together, these programs recognise the important role local surf clubs, surfers and ocean users play in improving beach safety.”
“These drones provide important real-time monitoring and alerts for beachgoers, surfers and lifesavers, but we need to continue improving coverage and technology across all beaches in Pittwater.”
“My vision is for NSW to lead the world in shark management, with smarter and more co-ordinated technology including automated drones, real-time alerts and AI-driven analysis to better understand shark behaviour and improve safety outcomes and better understanding of shark numbers as many call for population control,” Ms Scruby said.
“That will require continuous improvement and listening to surfers and ocean users as key stakeholders.”
Ms Scruby also thanks SLSC NSW for rolling out 129 Shark Bite Trauma kits, starting on the Northern Beaches.
ENDS
For further information: All water users are encouraged to download the Sharksmart app for near real-time shark activity information and alerts to help stay safe.