MANNING fisherman Ray Saunders, brother of Alan Saunders who was attacked by a shark at Crowdy Bay on Sunday, blames the changes in fishing regulations for the increase in sharks along the east coast.
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Ray said local fishermen have seen a massive increase in the number of sharks in local waters since 2000.
“There’s definitely been an increase in grey nurse sharks interfering with our nets since 2000.
“There’s an abundance of sharks along the coast now; we’re seeing bronze whalers come in too. During summer we catch an average of three bull sharks a day up in Mondrook Creek, opposite Bays Hill (Taree),” Ray said.
Ray believes it’s a combination of restricted fishing quotas, the closure of reefs and the closure of the two salmon canneries on the south coast which are to blame for the increased number of sharks.
“I fear the numbers will keep increasing and soon many of our local beaches and waterways won’t be safe for swimming,” Ray said.
Ray witnessed the attack which resulted in Alan being taken by helicopter to John Hunter Hospital for emergency surgery.
“There were a lot of sharks out there. When they get caught up in our nets we have to free them as soon as possible. Regulations state we must release them in at least two feet of water. This can be dangerous for us.
“It would be far less dangerous if we could free them once we’ve brought them to shore. Then they become a bit more docile and easier to handle,” Ray said.
Ray witnessed the attack on his brother, which he said happened quickly.
“There were two crews out there. They were waist deep in water trying to free two sharks in their nets when it happened.
“There were so many sharks out there. They’re in competition for all the fish running up the coast at the moment,” Ray said.
On Sunday the water in Crowdy Bay was a bit murky and the water temperature is still warm for this time of year, creating a particularly dangerous combination of conditions.
However, Ray is concerned it will take a more serious accident for authorities to realise there needs to be less restrictions on commercial fishermen, to maintain a balance in coastal waters.
“Each day at 8.30am I see a large tiger shark swim the length of Shelley Beach (Pacific Palms). It’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt around here,” Ray said.
Ray also mentioned the impact of marine parks on commercial fishermen, which restrict fishing in the best areas.
“You wouldn’t remove a farmer from the most prime land and make him farm a swamp instead. Well that’s what’s happening to the local fishing industry.
“The restrictions and the increase in fees mean that many of us won’t be able to keep going in this industry for much longer.”
