The importance of Surf Life Saving NSW UAVs has been acknowledged with a further funding commitment for the vital public safety program.
Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders confirmed a renewed funding package of $3M a year for three years to continue the UAV surveillance at 50 key coastal locations in NSW.
Additionally, the Department of Primary Industries will position four rapid response vessels (RRVs) at strategic locations along the coast to assist first responders in the unfortunate event of a serious shark incident.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the RRVs will complement UAV surveillance at beaches across the coast of NSW, adding another layer of protection for swimmers this summer.
“This new equipment will bolster our extensive UAV surveillance program. Combining our eyes in the sky with a rapid response capability will provide beachgoers with even greater peace of mind this summer,” said Steve Pearce.
The renewed funding will allow SLSNSW to continue to ensure the most modern assets are utilised allowing for the trial of extended line-of-sight UAV surveillance flights, which will deliver an improved capability to detect target shark species and provide early warning to lifesavers and lifeguards.
Thursday 22 December 2022