In a stunning turn of events, Cottesloe Beach, one of Perth’s most beloved coastal gems, has been closed to the public following an alarming encounter with a two-meter bronze whaler shark. The creature found itself on the wrong side of the barrier net early Wednesday morning, igniting a flurry of rescue efforts as authorities scrambled to guide it back to safety.
The drama escalated when a daring local, disregarding the swimming ban, entered the water armed with a spear gun, reportedly shooting at the trapped shark. Surf life savers first detected the breach at 8 a.m., swiftly ordering beachgoers to evacuate the water as they coordinated a response with the Department of Fisheries, the local council, and the net’s designers.
In the wake of the incident, authorities have initiated an investigation into the spear gun incident, with a spokesperson from the Department of Fisheries stating, “DPIRD will be following up with the person who allegedly fired the speargun to determine if any breach of fisheries legislation has occurred.”
Fortunately, the shark withstood the shock of the attack, and in a bid to encourage its departure, officials have opened a five-meter section of the net, hoping the creature will find its own way back to the open ocean.
Town of Cottesloe chief executive Matthew Scott emphasized the rarity of such an occurrence, noting, “The net—replaced just last year—has never experienced a breach like this in its five-year history. It’s eco-friendly, designed to allow some marine life in and out, but within restricted sizes. This is a very rare occasion.”
As the situation unfolds, the community holds its breath, watching closely as efforts to resolve the beachside drama continue.
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