Beaches re-opened in Durban

DURING the course of the past weekend the sardine activity continued in the area between Hibberdene and Port Shepstone where netting took place at the Umzumbe and Pumula beaches.

According to Greg Thompson, operations manager at The Sharks Board, on Sunday afternoon there were reports of pockets of sardines and lots of Cape Gannets moving into the area between Ramsgate and Shelly Beach.

“On Monday morning early there were reports of large shoals of sardines deeper offshore heading north off the Port Shepstone area. Pockets were also seen on the surface from Scottburgh to Mtwalume. There have been numerous attempted nettings at Bazley and Mtwalume but it seems that only one netter managed to bag 10 crates so far. Towards midday the action seemed to be increasing at Pennington as there were five netting boats on the water scouting the area,” he said.

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Shark safety gear has been removed from all protected beaches from Anstey’s on the Bluff to Port Edward on the South Coast. Thompson said some netting has been replaced along the Durban beachfront as the sardine movement seems to be bypassing this area for now. Bathing has been re-opened at the Bay of Plenty, North, South and New Beach.

“The Sharks Board appeals to the public to exercise caution should they enter the water during this time. The Board will continue to monitor the movement of the shoals and will manage the shark safety gear in consultation with the coastal municipalities that are affected,” said Thompson.

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