With the recent controversy of two shark bite incidents (our thoughts are with the victims) occurring at the same location on Western Australia’s coastline, on the same day, and the coasts citizens divided in their views of what could be/should be done to prevent shark attacks, Madison Stewart's “Australian Guide to Surfing with Sharks” could not have been released at a better time.
We are now coming into what seems to be a period in which shark bite incidents are occurring more frequently on Australian coastlines, with scientists speculating a number of reasons for this (season change, more bait fish, whale migration, cooler currents etc). As a country, we have over 6 million people who describe themselves as surfers, and the majority of citizens living on our coastlines use the ocean for recreation and leisure.
In 2017 there were a recorded 15 total unprovoked attacks with 9 victims fatally wounded (Taronga Australian Shark Attack File), and very similar numbers for 2016. Madison Stewart, a film making, shark swimming, conservation genius, has compiled scientific research, experiences, history and proven methods to bring you, in pamphlet form, the Australian Guide to Surfing With Sharks.
The guide gives readers up to date information they need about the appropriate time, places and scenarios to swim and surf in the ocean and what to avoid to reduce the already minimal chance of a shark attack occurring.
Each page covers, in detail, essential knowledge for anyone visiting our coastlines such as: environmental factors that increase shark presence (bait balls, whale carcasses etc), steps to avoid an attack (avoid wearing shiny jewellery, watch other animals behaviour etc), what to do if attacked (defense methods, etc) and first aid for shark bite incidents (stop blood loss, working as a team, etc).
This guide is simply effective and has the potential to save lives and minimize the chances of shark bite incidents, whilst maximizing the understanding and respect of one of the world’s most misunderstood animals.
“Sharing our oceans with sharks, although dangerous, is not only an inevitability…it is a privilege that comes with our wild country” - Madison Stewart
Come pick up your free guide from us at Sustainable Surf Collab today, or download for free by visiting www.madistewart.com
By
Sean Samer @vooodoochildi
