Grey Nurse Sharks Targeted in Disturbing Incidents at Terrigal Haven

Terrigal Haven, on the Latest South Wales Central Coast, is the site of concerning incidents involving the deliberate targeting of critically endangered grey nurse sharks. Authorities are investigating after videos surfaced on social media showing fishers catching and killing the sharks, sparking outrage from local residents and marine conservationists.

Investigation Launched After Shocking Video Emerges

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is investigating reports that grey nurse sharks are being deliberately targeted by fishers. A video circulating on social media appears to show a group of young men using game fishing equipment with a deceased grey nurse shark displayed on the rocks at Terrigal Haven.

Terrigal MP Adam Crouch expressed his shock at the behavior, stating the individuals were “posting and boasting” about their catches on Facebook. He has called for the full force of the law to be applied to those responsible, emphasizing the need to respect marine life, particularly endangered species. Source

Fisheries officers will be increasing patrols in the area this week as part of the investigation. The DPIRD stated that any grey nurse shark accidentally caught should be released immediately with minimal harm. Source

Distress Signals and Community Concern

Prior to the video surfacing, local divers reported observing grey nurse sharks with hooks and traces embedded in their mouths. Tom Collins, a diver with seven years of experience in the area, witnessed two juvenile sharks exhibiting signs of distress. He described one shark repeatedly opening and closing its mouth, appearing “incredibly uncomfortable” and seeking interaction, leading him to believe it was “crying for help.” Source

Terrigal Haven is a popular location for diving and snorkeling, known for its diverse marine life, including grey nurse sharks, blue gropers, turtles, and stingrays. Signage in the area indicates the sharks’ critically endangered status. Source

Calls for Increased Awareness and Protection

Ronny Ling from Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast highlighted a lack of understanding regarding the harmless nature of grey nurse sharks, comparing them to “labrador dogs” in terms of their temperament. He advocates for a greater presence of fisheries staff to educate the public. Source

Some community members are pushing for Terrigal Haven to be declared a marine reserve, prohibiting fishing in the area. Swimmers have observed young grey nurse sharks, estimated to be 80-90 centimeters long, suggesting the area may be a breeding ground. Source Source

However, MP Adam Crouch opposes the creation of a marine park, arguing it would unfairly punish responsible fishers and citing logistical challenges related to the location of a boat ramp and marine squadron. Source

Grey Nurse Shark Conservation Status

Australia’s eastern grey nurse shark population is listed as Critically Endangered. Recent research, including genetic analysis of over 300 sharks off the New South Wales coast, indicates a sluggish increase in the adult population – approximately 5% annually between 2017 and 2023, rising from around 1096 to 1420 adults. Source

Conservation efforts, such as protecting key aggregation sites for breeding and pupping, are believed to be contributing to this modest recovery. Source