Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), Media Release, 28 April 2026

129 new publicly accessible Shark Bite Trauma Kits will be installed at each of the state’s surf clubs as part of Surf Life Saving NSW’s continued focus on increased community safety.

The trauma kits will be affixed to the external wall of each NSW surf club where, in the event of a reported shark incident, and in the absence of a lifesaver or lifeguard on duty, members of the public will be able to apply emergency first aid until first responders arrive on scene.

It comes after a spate of fatal shark attacks in the past seven months, including several at the end of January, and the continued need for preventative actions along our coastline with many beaches being closed each day due to shark sightings.

“Volunteer surf lifesavers are in most instances the first emergency service responding to shark bite incidents and so we are always looking to introduce improvements in equipment and responses to support our protection of those community members visiting the coastline,” SLSNSW CEO, Steve Pearce said.

“We believe that by ensuring our surf clubs are equipped with these publicly accessible Shark Bite Trauma Kits, we are addressing a major need and providing a safeguard against the possibility of a serious incident unfolding.”

The Shark Bite Trauma Kits will complement the expansive UAV shark surveillance program delivered by Surf Life Saving NSW across the breadth of the NSW coastline.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s NSW Shark Management Program currently sees 80 beaches patrolled by UAV every day. 

This summer season, SLSNSW drones undertook more than 65,000 flights and observed over 1,500 sharks.

“SLSNSW is at the forefront of shark management strategies nationally,” Steve continued.

“Surf clubs are both highly visible community hubs and places of protection and community support and having easily accessible Shark Bite Trauma Kits at these locations is an effective way to instil a stronger level of confidence and resilience in our coastal communities.”