Dead shark no cause for concern

12 October 2018

The City of Albany is advising swimmers the Ellen Cove shark barrier is secure and there is no need to be concerned after a dead shark was located within the swimming enclosure this morning.

Rangers received a report this morning that a shark had been spotted inside the swimming enclosure overnight. The enclosure was inspected and a dead mako shark about 1.5 metres in length was found inside the area and removed.

Manager City Operations Mike Richardson said it appeared the shark had died several days ago.

“We inspected and there are no obvious breaches of the barrier,” he said. “The shark was inspected for signs of injury which might suggest it had been caught up in the barrier, but no signs of this were found.

“The shark looks like it has been dead in the water for some time prior to being found this morning and we believe it has washed over the barrier in last night’s swell.”

Beachgoers witnessed the removal of the shark this morning, and Mr Richardson has reassured swimmers the enclosure is sound.

“The enclosure barrier was inspected and was found intact. Fisheries have been notified and are happy for the shark to be disposed of, so it has been taken to our Hanrahan landfill facility for burial.”

No other shark activity has been reported in the area. The public can report shark sightings by calling 9442 8600.