Shark measures come at a cost.
Camera IconShark measures come at a cost. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Premier beats drums retreat

Justin Bianchini, Editor, Joondalup TimesWanneroo Times

So it came as no surprise when people turned out in big numbers to an anti-cull rally at Cottesloe beach in February.

With such emotion, and at times antagonism, along with the Environmental Protection Authority’s recommendation last week against the measure, Premier Colin Barnett was left to admit shark drum lines were not to be placed off metropolitan beaches this summer.

Given the cost of other shark deterrent proposals to protect swimmers, Mr Barnett has little option but to continue funding Surf Life Saving WA helicopter patrols.

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Cottesloe council is looking into the cost of an eco shark barrier that was tested at Coogee last summer.

However, local government will not want to be left footing the bill for such measures either.