A humpback whale and her calf were successfully freed from a shark net near Noosa, Queensland, in a rescue operation that has once again highlighted concerns about the impact of shark nets on marine life.
Drone footage captured the distressing incident, showing the mother whale entangled and inadvertently ensnaring her calf. Dr. Olaf Meynecke, a marine mammal researcher and CEO of Humpbacks and High-Rises Inc., noted that while such entanglements occur annually, this particular event was concerning due to the mother and calf dynamic, emphasizing the calf's extreme vulnerability and the significant risk of drowning.
The rescue effort involved local marine experts, Noosa Council, and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF). Despite the positive outcome, the incident has intensified calls from environmental advocates for the removal of shark nets during peak whale migration seasons. Critics argue that these nets are outdated and indiscriminately harm marine life, with studies indicating that a vast majority of animals caught are non-target species. For example, a study analyzing the NSW Shark Meshing Program found that 94% of animals caught were not the intended target species.
Alternatives such as drone surveillance, electronic deterrents, and specialized barriers are being explored as more humane and effective solutions for marine safety. This incident is reminiscent of previous entanglements, including a mother and calf that dragged a shark net approximately 100km north to Hervey Bay. It is estimated that only 10-20% of entangled whales are successfully assisted by rescuers, with many others succumbing to injuries or exhaustion.
The annual migration of approximately 40,000 humpback whales along the east coast of Australia presents a critical period where these risks are heightened. The effectiveness and ecological impact of shark nets remain a contentious issue, with ongoing debate about balancing human safety with the conservation of marine biodiversity. Many advocate for a shift towards non-lethal mitigation strategies that protect both people and marine ecosystems.