Decision to return drum lines to Queensland coastline welcomed

Drum lines will go back in the water as early as mid-February in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to protect swimmers along the Queensland Coastline.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt has welcomed today’s announcement which comes after drumlines were removed in September by the Queensland Labor government. 

“I will always place human life above that of a shark, so we need to be doing everything possible to protect people on our beaches.

“Approximately 120 drumlines will be re-deployed by mid-February which is a great outcome for not only the residents that live in these areas, but the tourists who visit,” Mr Pitt said.

The Australian Government has committed $4 million to help support the Queensland Government’s transition to non-lethal shark control measures with further costs to be assessed as the state government implements SMART drumline trials, rebates to councils to install swimmer safety netting, piloting drone surveillance, and swimmer education.

An additional $1 million will assist the Whitsundays with shark control measures, research and improved education and signage.