01 December 2014
UniSA’s aerial shark patrol will again keep beach-goers safe this summer, with the service starting today (December 1) through to the end of March.
The fixed-wing aircraft service is provided by UniSA’s Aviation Academy. It monitors the metropolitan coastline from North Haven to Rapid Bay seven days a week between 11am and 8pm. Monitoring is extended to the south coast between Victor Harbor and Goolwa on weekends, public holidays and every day of the school holidays.
Aviation Academy head Neil Hyland says about 40 students and graduates from the academy participate in shark patrol, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to gain real operational experience.
“Shark patrol gives our young pilots valuable flying experience while also providing a very important community service,” Mr Hyland says.
“For our pilots, shark patrol provides an awareness of the professional responsibilities of air crew, and an insight into the diverse career opportunities available for graduate pilots, who are in demand in areas like ‘fly-in fly-out’ for mining, fish spotting, instructing, charter, and of course piloting for regional, national and international airlines.”
UniSA uses fixed-wing aircraft for its patrols. When a shark is sighted, the aircraft will circle the shark, at the same time sounding a loud siren.
Media contact: Kelly Stone office 8302 0963 mobile 0417 861 832 email Kelly.stone@unisa.edu.au
