Drone footage has revealed just how close a large shark came to the shore of one of Perth’s busiest beaches last week.
North Cottesloe, Cottesloe and Swanbourne Beach were all forced shut after the 2m-long shark was spotted circling just 5m offshore and near Cottesloe’s main groyne on November 19.
The shark was first detected just before 7.30am and the beaches were reopened before midday, with lifesavers letting swimmers back in the water about 10.45am.
The vision was captured by North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club’s drone patrol — which is just one of 14 clubs taking part in Surf Life Saving WA’s drone program.
The program helps guards conduct lifesaving surveillance by allowing them to monitor sharks’ movements, abalone fishing sessions, open water swim events and emergency response activities.
WATCH THE VISION IN THE PLAYER ABOVE
More than 470 hours of drone surveillance were undertaken by patrols across WA last season, with SLSWA saying drones have become “an important resource”.
“We know that drones provide a localised surveillance service that complements the roles performed by our Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, jet ski teams and clubs’ on-beach patrols,” Surf Life Saving WA general manager Chris Peck said.
Esperance Goldfields, Port Bouvard, Secret Harbour, Coogee Beach, Fremantle, Cottesloe, North Cottesloe, City of Perth, Scarboro, Trigg Island, Mullaloo, and Quinns Mindarie all conduct drone surveillance as part of the program.