The fatal shark attack on a surfer at Sydney's Long Reef beach has intensified scrutiny of shark nets, with questions raised about their efficacy in preventing such incidents. Mercury Psillakis, 57, was attacked by a large shark on Saturday, just a week after the annual installation of shark nets along the New South Wales coast.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has identified the shark responsible as a 3.4 to 3.6 metre white shark, based on photographs of the victim's surfboard. Long Reef is adjacent to Dee Why, which is protected by a net, but experts note that nets do not create a complete barrier against sharks entering swimming areas.
In response to the tragedy, the NSW government has suspended a trial that aimed to remove shark nets from some beaches. On Tuesday, officials confirmed that no nets will be removed this summer, halting the planned shift towards alternative safety measures.
The incident has reignited debate over the balance between traditional netting and modern technologies, such as drones and shark-spotting systems. Critics argue that nets harm marine life and provide a false sense of security, while supporters maintain they reduce the risk of attacks.
