More shark surveillance needed for Cabarita

TWEED Shire Council has renewed its call for more state funding for shark-spotting drones after a surfer’s board was bitten in half at Cabarita Beach.

The surfer escaped without injury in the incident, which happened about 7.30am on Monday, August 18.

The beach was closed before reopening on Tuesday morning after drones confirmed it was safe.

Council says drone patrols at Cabarita currently run only during school holidays or when requested.

Mayor Chris Cherry said more regular surveillance was needed to reassure locals and visitors.

“While we understand there are inherent risks in swimming and surfing in our oceans, if there are steps that we can take to make it safer, then it makes sense for us to try and take these steps, particularly at busy beaches like Cabarita Beach and Kingscliff,” Cr Cherry said.

There are 15 SMART drumlines in the Tweed, including seven at Cabarita after two more were added this week. One of the drumlines caught and released a five-metre white shark less than three hours after the incident.

Council first pushed for extra drone patrols in December 2024 as part of a wider resolution supporting shark management measures including SMART drumlines and listening stations.

The state’s 2024–25 Shark Management Program funds 37 listening stations, more than 300 drumlines, and seasonal drone patrols with Surf Life Saving NSW.