Arabic version: تدريب راكبي الأمواج كطيارين للطائرات بدون طيار لتعزيز سلامة أسماك القرش

The family of shark attack victim Mercury Psillakis has welcomed a new initiative to train surfers to operate drones for beach surveillance. Mike Psillakis, Mercury’s twin brother, expressed that if there had been a “drone in the sky” monitoring Long Reef Beach during the tragic incident on the sixth of September last year, his brother might still be alive. The program, which has commenced in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, is set to expand to other regions in New South Wales.

According to ABC News, the initiative is part of a broader $30 million Shark Management Program and is supported by a $650,000 funding package from the Minns government. By the end of winter, it is expected there will be 125 new drone pilots and an extra 60 drones, all featuring a tribute to Mercury Psillakis, in the skies between Newcastle and Wollongong.

The training will not only focus on operating the drones but also on identifying high-risk shark species and implementing safety protocols during sightings. This new measure comes as a response to the need for enhanced protection for surfers, especially during the off-season when traditional patrols are not in place.

Maria Psillakis, Mercury’s widow, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and emphasized the importance of the initiative in honoring her husband’s legacy. She stated that the introduction of drones represents progress and a commitment to safety along the coastline.

New South Wales Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, highlighted the advantages of drone technology, allowing beaches to reopen quickly after a shark sighting. However, Mike Psillakis criticized traditional shark nets, asserting they are ineffective and advocating for advanced drone technology to ensure the safety of all beachgoers.