Cambridge council will consider a shark barrier at City Beach after a 31-tonne whale carcass washed up on its coastline. Deputy mayor Ben Mayes has proposed a desktop review of the barrier's feasibility, which would also examine costs and possible external funding. The removal operation is forecast to cost about $180,000, roughly three times the original estimate. Mr Mayes has called on the State Government to take primary responsibility for funding whale carcass responses across WA. The State's Treasurer has said the government is willing to engage with the town on the costs.
The City of Stirling has voted to investigate stronger shark safety measures along its 7.5km coastline, including a possible shark barrier at Scarborough Beach. A report is due to the community and resources committee on November 24. Options include enhanced drone patrols and AI-assisted shark detection. Council officers warned that barriers may be unsuitable for exposed surf beaches because of heavy swells and strong currents. The move follows three fatal shark attacks in four months, the most recent involving a 61-year-old man at Sorrento Beach in September.
The shark barrier at Cottesloe Beach has been installed after stormy weather delayed the work. Installation began on Monday and was completed on Wednesday. The barrier is 170 metres long, extends 140 metres out from the shoreline along the groyne, and will stay in place until the end of April. The Town of Cottesloe spends $120,000 a year on the barrier. Mayor Melissa Harkins said it is part of the town's commitment to community safety. The work comes amid increased shark activity around Perth beaches and a recent fatal attack at Sorrento Beach.
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A Joondalup councillor wants the city to assess whether a modern non-lethal shark barrier could be installed at Sorrento Beach. Cr Phillip Vinciullo's motion follows last month's fatal shark attack that killed 63-year-old Greg O'Neill. He says the aim is to gather current information, not to assign blame. The beach's previous Eco Shark Barrier was removed in 2020 after an assessment found structural damage. Mayor Daniel Kingston has also put forward a motion on beach safety, with a final council vote expected on October 27.
The shark barrier at Quinns Beach is set to be reinstalled next week, while the Cottesloe barrier has been delayed due to unsafe weather conditions. Cottesloe mayor Melissa Harkins acknowledged community concerns following recent shark activity. Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis confirmed funding is available for local governments to install beach enclosures. The City of Wanneroo uses a team of at least five to install the barrier, depending on conditions.
