Media Release
November 10 2009
UniSA shark patrols save lives, enhance careers
The
University of South Australia’s aerial shark patrols will keep Adelaide
beachgoers safe for an extended summer season as patrols take to the
skies from today.
With the state sweltering through its hottest November on record and an
increase in swimmers on Adelaide’s beaches,
Emergency Services Minister Michael Wright this morning launched the
service – which UniSA provides
for the State Government – at the West Beach boat ramp.
UniSA’s
Aviation Academy has again been successful in winning the SA
Government contract to supply the aircraft and crew for shark patrols
across the next three summer seasons.
UniSA aviation graduates will fly the university’s planes from North
Haven to Rapid Bay, between 11am and 8pm on week days from now through
to April 1. The patrols will complement those already surveying the sea
on weekends and public holidays by Surf Life Saving SA.
Head of Aviation Mr
Stephen Phillips says: “The three person crew, comprising the pilot,
a trained SES shark spotter and a communications officer, will alert the
swimming public of any shark sightings by sounding an onboard siren.
“They relay details of the sightings to SA Police who will take other
appropriate measures to ensure public safety.”
Mr Phillips said in addition to being a vital community service, the
shark patrol provided an invaluable opportunity for graduate pilots and
crew to gain real operational experience.
“Similar to fish spotting, the shark patrol is an example of the diverse
career opportunities for pilots beyond the better known avenues of
military and commercial passenger aviation,” he said.
“Right now pilots are in demands in all sorts of fields, ranging from
‘fly-in-fly-out’ for mining, instructing and charter through to air
ambulance services and the airlines whether regional, national or
international.
“For our graduates, flying the shark patrols provides a valuable first
look into a wide range of career prospects and the professional
responsibilities of air crew.”
Mr Phillips said UniSA is proud to be providing such a vital community
service through the shark patrols.
“The Aviation Academy will play a central role in this State Government
initiative to keep metropolitan beaches safe for swimmers,” he said.
“The patrols are a good example of what can be achieved when the
university, government and volunteers work together for the community.”
Contact for interview
-
Stephen Phillips office (08) 8302 3047 mobile 0423 292 249
Media contact
- Kelly Stone office (08) 8302 0963 mobile 0417 861 862 email kelly.stone@unisa.edu.au