Drones patrol 80 NSW beaches for shark detection

Surf Life Saving New South Wales operates drones across more than 80 beaches along the entire state coastline, conducting two flights per hour, seven days a week to detect sharks and protect swimmers and surfers. The drone program detected over 1,200 sharks during the 2026 summer season alone, using early detection systems and immediate response protocols including sirens, radio alerts to lifeguards, and beach evacuations when necessary. The uncrewed aerial vehicles also assist Rural Fire Service with fire spotting, SES with flood response, and police with search and rescue operations.

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