Pier to Pub organisers detail shark safety measures

THE organisers of the Lorne Pier to Pub say extensive safety measures are in place in case of a shark sighting this Saturday, January 10.

A large shark was captured on video close to the Point Grey pier late last year.

More recently, swimmers at Lorne’s main beach were briefly ordered to leave the water on Tuesday this week after a member of the public reported a possible shark sighting near the pier.

The beach was closed in line with Life Saving Victoria protocols while investigations were undertaken.

Following an assessment involving lifeguards, helicopter and drone surveillance and water patrols, the sighting could not be corroborated and was deemed to pose no threat to public safety, and the beach was reopened within about 30 minutes.

Pier to Pub race director Peter Williamson said the safety of competitors and the wider community remained Lorne SLSC’s highest priority.

“Our shark management and emergency response procedures are guided by Life Saving Victoria standards and are reviewed ahead of every event.

“In the event of a confirmed shark sighting that presents a risk to competitors, the race would be paused immediately until it is deemed safe to continue, or cancelled if the shark remained in the area.”

For Saturday’s swim event, Lorne SLSC will establish an extensive safety operation. This includes:

• More than 100 qualified surf lifesavers patrolling the 1.2km race course
• 13 inflatable rescue boats positioned throughout the course
• A jet ski and drone conducting continuous water surveillance, and
• A pre-event helicopter flyover with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, to check course conditions and safety.

“We put our most experienced lifesavers in the water because we care deeply about the safety of our swimmers,” Mr Williamson said.

“Should an emergency arise, all planned emergency procedures would be enacted immediately.”