Mandurah top of WA for shark deterrent purchases

PIC: File

The number of locals taking advantage of the personal shark deterrent subsidy scheme has reached a high.

Mandurah has topped the list for purchases of the device across Western Australia, as well as Safety Bay for dive device rebates.

More than 4000 rebates have been claimed by WA ocean users.

While divers still lead the take with 3,367 devices purchased, the number of surfers taking advantage of the rebate has grown to 633.

More than 50 per cent of these devices were purchased by surfers aged between 34 and 54 years old.

There are still about 1,000 rebates available, after the State Government increased the number to 5,000 in late September.

Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly said personal protection in the water is important coming into warmer weather. 

"The two devices available under the rebate scheme have been scientifically proven to significantly reduce interactions with white sharks," he said.

"It's not too late to take advantage of the rebate scheme, and I encourage all our ocean users, particularly the surfing community, to purchase a device to help keep themselves or their loved ones stay safe in the water.

"More than 5,000 people have switched on their Sea Sense and downloaded the new SharkSmart WA app. This goes to show the community are aware, and keen to learn more about how to use their Sea Sense to keep safe in the water."

The program gives ocean users a $200 rebate when they purchase one of two scientifically proven devices. This means the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ Surf (Bundle) is reduced to $299 and the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM7 is reduced to $399.

Ocean users are also encouraged to download the State's first ever official shark notification app - SharkSmart WA.

The free app provides near real-time information on shark activity, including current alerts and warnings, and also provides details of safety features at each beach.

For more information, visit https://www.sharksmart.com.au.

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