Whales at Risk: Shark Nets Threaten Queensland’s Ecotourism Icon

Humpback whales are among the most iconic marine species to visit Queensland’s coast. But each year, these majestic creatures face a gauntlet of deadly hazards: shark nets. Despite widespread awareness of whale entanglements, the Queensland Shark Control Program continues to deploy shark nets directly in whale migration paths (as can be seen on this Blue Corridor migration map), including in areas with thriving whale watching industries. Chris Johnson of WWF described these nets as “a growing concern on Australia's East Coast” when it comes to humpback whale conservation.

Envoy Foundation’s 2024 Independent Review of the QSCP highlighted the concerning rise in whale entanglements and noted the negative global media attention these incidents attract. Whale deaths and distress footage have been broadcast internationally, painting a damaging image of Queensland’s environmental policies, just as the state seeks to promote itself as a destination for eco-conscious travellers.

Between 1962 and 2024, the QSCP documented 167 whale entanglements, resulting in eight confirmed deaths by drowning. The fate of whales that were released alive, self-released or remained entangled post-release is unclear, but it is feared that many may not have survived. Despite the known risks of injuries and complications post-entanglement, the Queensland government fails to track whale survivability post-release.

The use of shark nets during whale migration season is not only cruel but entirely avoidable. New South Wales completely removes their nets during whale migration season every year, without any negative effect on the safety of ocean goers. Queensland briefly kept pace with its southern neighbour, removing some Gold Coast shark nets during whale season in the early 1990s, but abandoned this after only a few years for undisclosed reasons. Again, they planned a 2020 trial to remove nets during this period, but cancelled the initiative at the last minute. Critics say this reflects a pattern of missed opportunities to modernise the program and protect marine life.

Furthermore, the review points out that whale watching contributes significantly to local economies. A multi-million-dollar industry is now under threat due to the outdated shark culling practices, which also impacts whales. As public awareness and concern grow, tourists may think twice before supporting a state that continues to entangle whales under the guise of public safety.

The Queensland Government’s own Scientific Working Group has consistently recommended the removal of shark nets during the humpback whale migration. How long will the Government continue to ignore them? The stakes are high: for the whales, for Queensland’s tourism economy, and for the state’s reputation on the global stage.