Beach patrols take to the air: Surf Life Saving WA

SURF Life Saving WA has started aerial patrols along the coast for the 2015-16 beach season.

As part of the State Government’s strategy to mitigate shark hazards , the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue helicopter will patrol beaches from Yanchep to Mandurah and Rottnest.

The helicopter performs coastal surveillance patrols and is equipped to respond to emergencies, including rescues. Last year’s patrols covered 93,000km across Perth and the South-West and spotted 349 sharks.

The group receives funding from the State Government, Westpac and the family of the late John Roberts, a long-time supporter of SLSWA, to provide the aerial patrols, which will run until the end of April 2016.

Surf Life Saving WA does not patrol beaches north of Yanchep.

Beachgoers are encouraged to use the Beachsafe website and app for shark sightings and hazard information.