CITY OF CAPE TOWN
MEDIA RELEASE
28 November 2008

Cape Town’s unique shark spotting programme has appointed a specialist on white sharks to research new developments in shark safety technology.

Alison Kock, a marine biologist from the Save our Seas Shark Centre (SOSSC) will also conduct ongoing research into white shark conservation and recreational safety.

"White sharks are a naturally occurring species in our waters. As apex predators they play a vital role in the health of our marine ecosystems. If we can reduce the already small risk of a shark bite, we can make a meaningful contribution to white shark conservation and the community's well-being," says Kock.

According to Gregg Oelofse, Head of Environmental Policy and Strategy at the City of Cape Town, the shark spotting programme has attracted international attention because of the novel way it seeks to find an environmentally friendly solution to potential conflicts between sharks and people.

"Shark spotters not only significantly increase the level of beach safety, but the programme also profiles Cape Town positively, enhances skills development and creates jobs.

"Between 2004 and 2007, a total of 483 shark sightings were recorded at shark spotting beaches around Cape Town. This proves its effectiveness as a warning system for beach recreational users," says Oelofse.

Due to its success, the City of Cape Town has committed further financial support to the programme for the next five years. New shark signage will also be erected between Sunrise Beach and Macassar as a specific reminder of high inshore shark activity over the summer months.

"So far there have only been eight sightings of white sharks in the False Bay area since October. This is considerable lower than the 36 sightings in 2007 and the 37 in 2006 for the same time of year.

"The reasons for this decrease in sightings compared to previous years is not known at this stage, but may be linked to variable weather patterns or prey availability.

"These variations underscore the importance of long-term research which is vital for public safety and white shark conservation programmes," says Oelofse.

The programme is now under the new management of the Kommetjie Environmental Awareness Group (KEAG). This non-profit organisation has over 18 years of experience in environmental project management.

"The shark spotting programme ties in with our marine research programme on recreational fishing activities in the South Peninsula," says Wally Petersen, KEAG project manager.

Shark spotters are currently operational at the following areas:

• Muizenberg corner: 7 days a week, from 8am to 7pm
• St James beach: 7 days a week, from 8am to 7pm
• Fish Hoek: 7 days a week, from 8am to 6:45pm
• Noordhoek (The Hoek): 7 days a week, from 8am to 7pm
• Clovelly: Weekends, public & school holidays, from 8am to 4pm
• Glencairn: Weekends, public & school holidays, from 8am to 7pm.

During the summer holidays, additional shark spotters will be on duty at Mnandi, Blue Waters, Monwabisi and Strandfontein.

"However, no safety measure is 100% effective. And although the shark spotting programme has been successful, it remains vulnerable to human error, weather conditions and water quality issues," says Oelofse.

The following tips can help reduce the risk of attack:

• Do not swim, surf or surf-ski where birds, dolphins or seals are feeding nearby, or where trek-netting, fishing or spear fishing is taking place
• Do not swim in deep water beyond the breakers or near river mouths 
• Do not swim if you are bleeding
• Do not swim, surf or surf-ski at night
• If a shark has recently been sighted in an area where no shark spotters are present, consider using another beach for the day
• First time visitors to beach areas should consult law enforcement officials, life guards and locals
• If kayaking or surf skiing far out to sea, consider paddling in groups and staying close together (in a diamond shape)
• Consider using a personal shark shield when you go surfing or kayaking
• Pay attention to any shark signage on beaches and obey beach officials if told to leave the water.

For more information on the latest shark sightings, visit: www.sharkspotters.org.za and www.saveourseas.com

Ends

Issued by: The Communication Department, City of Cape Town

Media Enquiries:
*Alison Kock, Marine Biologist, Save Our Seas Shark Centre, Cell: 072 661 9516
*Sakhile Tsotsobe, City of Cape Town: Coastal Coordinator, Cell: 074 185 0123
*Darryl Colenbrander, City of Cape Town: Coastal Coordinator, 084 820 0603
*Wally Petersen and Sarah Titley, Shark Spotting Coordinators: KEAG, 076 859 3633