Eye in sky proving a lifesaver for beachgoers

Surf Life Saving WA’s South West-based Westpac Helicopter reported a more than 65 per cent increase in swimmers and surfers being cleared from the water due to the presence of sharks this school holiday period. Over the two weeks, the helicopter cleared more than 95 swimmers and surfers from beaches throughout the South West, as well as warning more than 300 beachgoers not to enter the water due to sharks nearby. Popular spots Meelup and Bunker Bay beaches were among the locations where the clearances and warnings were issued, including The Farm surf break where a young surfer was attacked by a shark in July. SLSWA general manager life saving Chris Peck said the service was very valuable for beachgoers in the South West, and the numbers showed it continued to play an important role in helping to keep the public safe. “Without a doubt, through the number of beachgoer warnings issued and those cleared from the water, we know that the presence of our Westpac Helicopter significantly decreases the likelihood of an interaction with a shark,” Mr Peck said. “These figures for the South West are up on this period last year and, with the current border closures in place, we expect to see even more West Australians heading south and spending time on the coast. “What we are asking people to do is stay vigilant and to heed the advice issued by any of the services, including the Westpac Helicopter and, wherever possible, choose to swim at a patrolled location where there are life savers and lifeguards on duty.” The Westpac Helicopter is a State Government-funded service that operates yearly between September and April.