DPIRD issues shark warning for Swan River after detections skyrocket

Authorities are on high alert after a shark alert was issued for an area of the Swan River between Melville and Fremantle, warning swimmers to keep a look-out after increased detections in the area.

According to DPIRD, a tagged bull shark has been identified up to 77 times by monitoring devices between East Fremantle and Blackwall Reach in the past three days.

Blackwall Reach is a popular swimming spot in East Fremantle where people regularly jump off the cliff, plunging into the waters below.

A bull shark was also detected six times under the Stirling Traffic Bridge at East Fremantle between February 20 and 21.

The bull shark species is aggressive towards humans and are able to swim in fresh water for long periods of time, making them a particularly dangerous threat for swimmers.

It is the same species that is believed to have taken the life of Stella Berry in 2023.

The 16-year-old was attacked while swimming under the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, less than a kilometre away from where a shark was detected under the Stirling Bridge.

Ms Berry’s tragic death triggered an increase of shark tagging along the Swan, the information from which is uploaded to DPIRD’s Shark Smart website and app.

DPIRD has warned that the latest detections could increase the risk of swimmers and river-users interacting with sharks.

It said that “additional caution” should be used when entering the water.

Beachgoers should also comply with any beach closures, which may be implemented by rangers or Parks and Wildlife officers.

Members of the public are encouraged to report shark sightings to the Water Police on 9442 8600, which will be passed on to local government authorities and updated to the SharkSmart website and app.

DPIRD will continue to monitor the situation.