NSW Commences Surf Patrol Season With Expanded Shark Surveillance and Safety Equipment

Volunteer lifesavers returned to beaches across New South Wales on Saturday to mark the start of the 2026–27 patrol season, which is scheduled to run until April 27, 2027. The launch comes ahead of a forecast period of above-average temperatures and dry conditions expected to draw large crowds to the coast.

According to Surf Life Saving NSW and government officials, recent weeks have already seen drownings along the state's coastline. In response, beachgoers are being urged to swim between the red and yellow flags, heed instructions from lifesavers, and verify conditions before entering the water.

Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers are entering the season equipped with upgraded rescue gear, including jet skis, drones, and Emergency Response Beacons. Additionally, the NSW Government announced it is directing $50 million toward drone-based shark surveillance as part of a broader $120 million investment in the Shark Management Program.

The surveillance initiative will deploy more than 70 drones across more than 90 beaches, featuring extended operating hours and increased coverage during peak periods such as the spring school holidays. The broader management strategy also incorporates SMART drumlines, shark nets, and research initiatives.

For the first time, two Tagged Shark Listening Stations have been installed within Sydney Harbour, located near Balmoral and Lady Bay. These stations link to the SharkSmart app, issuing real-time alerts whenever a tagged shark is detected in the vicinity.

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce stated that the upcoming summer is anticipated to be one of the most challenging seasons in recent years due to high crowd volumes and the potential for increased shark activity during warmer months. Authorities continue to stress that visitors should only swim at patrolled locations during designated hours.

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