Central Coast Council received correspondence from the NSW Government last week, to be one of three NSW councils to take part in a trial, which would see one beach nominated in each LGA to have shark nets removed permanently. Council has until 22 August 2025 to respond to the NSW Government on a preferred approach.  

Council will take a co-ordinated approach with NSW Department of Primary Industries who are responsible for the Shark Management Program and Surf Life Saving, to make an informed decision on which beach to select to trial the removal of nets for the 2025/2026 patrol season. 

This will involve reviewing the current shark management program technology in place across the region, findings from the recent trial of the removal of shark nets in March 2025, visitation of beaches and any additional risk factors.