Latest news with #KZNSharksBoard
The Citizen
10-07-2025
- Science
- The Citizen
KZN shark net replacement claims identified as hoax
A widely circulated press release claiming that the KZN Sharks Board will replace shark nets with an electromagnetic barrier system has been confirmed as false. The release, which appeared on a replica of the KZN Sharks Board website last week, alleged that legacy shark nets at 37 beaches – including Ballito, Umdloti, Salt Rock and Zinkwazi – would be replaced by a new electric deterrent system before Marine Protected Areas Day on August 1. The report cited fabricated quotes from marine scientists and falsely attributed comments to local officials. The KZN Sharks Board has since confirmed that no such project exists. The Courier has also confirmed that several individuals named in the article, including a scientist attributed as 'Dr Jacob Ramsammy,' are fictitious. Local marine safety stakeholders, including the National Sea Rescue Institute, said they were not consulted and were unaware of any such transition plan. Shark nets and drumlines have long been criticised for their negative impact on marine ecosystems. 'Whoever was trying to dupe the media and the public went to great lengths to do so,' said Courier editor Lesley Naudé. 'The people behind the false information went as far as sending us a fake press release and cloning the KZN Sharks Board website.' The real Sharks Board website can be found at and the fake at Aside from a different cell phone number and the aforementioned release, the websites appear almost identical. Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
08-07-2025
- The Citizen
Several beaches closed for swimming as KZN Sharks Board removes nets
Several beaches closed for swimming as KZN Sharks Board removes nets THE KZN Sharks Board has closed several beaches along the province's coastline, as the sardine run continues its great trek. For the safety of beachgoers, the shark safety gear has been removed and swimming has been prohibited. Also read: Mystery of Sardine Run lives on Affected beaches: The beaches that are currently closed to the public include: Anstey's Brighton Beach Isipingo Amanzimtoti Warner Beach Winklespruit Karridene Umgababa Scottburgh What else can you do at the beach Although swimming is prohibited at the beach, there are other fun activities that you and your family can do to make it a memorable day out. Take up photography as a hobby for the day. Take a nice stroll along the beach. Watch the sunset or sunrise. Read a book and soak up the sun. Have a seaside picnic. Play some sports on the beach like cricket, soccer and volleyball. For more information and updates, check the KZN Sharks Board social media. For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
07-07-2025
- Science
- The Citizen
New barrier system to replace shark nets along KZN coastline
THE KZN Sharks Board (KZNSB) has announced the rollout of a new shark barrier system that will replace the legacy shark nets and drumlines used at 37 beaches along the KZN coastline. The rollout of the new system is set to be completed before Marine Protected Areas Day on August 1. According to the conservation body, evidence shows that the legacy system contributes to 'high mortality rates among both target and non-target species'. The magnetic barrier system incorporates a cable which emits a low-frequency electromagnetic field, that disrupts a shark's sensory system, specifically their 'electroreceptors, causing the shark to turn away' including white sharks, a marine species most impacted by the shark nets and drumlines. Also read: Durban exhibition celebrates turtle conservation According to the KZNSB the proven deterrent technology will work in conjunction with a shark monitoring programme which includes AI-powered aerial drones and trained field monitors. 'The aim is not only to ensure public safety but also to better align our operations with South Africa's strong conservation values. In tandem with the new deployment, the board will begin the removal of shark nets and drumlines that have traditionally been installed at 37 beaches,' the KZNSB said in a statement. Jacob Ramsammy, lead scientist of the KZN Sharks Board, said the new system aims to reduce shark and bycatch fatalities to zero. 'This not only reflects the national ethos of marine conservation but also brings marine safety practices in line with modern terrestrial wildlife conservation standards. We believe that this transition is a necessary and responsible evolution of our approach to coastal safety. As stewards of both public safety and marine biodiversity, we are proud to lead the way in adopting technologies that protect people without harming the environment,' he said. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
06-07-2025
- Climate
- The Citizen
KZN Sharks Board warns public to be alert during Sardine Run
KZN Sharks Board warns public to be alert during Sardine Run The KZN Sharks Board has urged lifeguards and the public to stay alert and aware of ocean activity, as sardine shoals and predator species move along the coast. Bathing has been reopened between Hibberdene and Trafalgar – with exception of Umkobi near San Lameer, which remains closed. However, there is no shark safety gear at beaches such as Port Edward, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and To Strand, and beachgoers are reminded to be cautious when entering the water. 'The lifeguards and public are asked to be on the lookout and aware of ocean activity,' said Wayne Harrison of the KZN Sharks Board. 'If you see any activity in the water, rather stay out.' While predator activity has eased in some areas, the presence of sardines, red-eye, mackerel and other bait fish continues to attract larger marine life. The board's winter strategy of removing shark nets and relying mainly on drumlines has drastically reduced the chances of mass or unwanted captures of marine animals during the Sardine Run and whale migration. Harrison says this flexible approach aims to strike a balance – allowing safe bathing where possible, while protecting marine life and ensuring the public understands the risks during this unique coastal event. The board will maintain this winter approach until the end of November when the whale migration season ends. Nets and drumlines are then adjusted to manage increased summer shark activity (especially the Zambezi bull shark) linked to warmer waters and rainfall. HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
05-07-2025
- Climate
- The Citizen
Game fish on the bite on KZN South Coast
Anglers have reported excellent fishing from Durban to Port Edward. With the arrival of the sardines, game fish was on the bite, with garrick, snoek, yellowtail, kingfish, kob and bronze bream in the mix. Although there were some good days for shad fishing, it hasn't been explosive. However, a few shad were caught at The Block in Port Shepstone, Station Bay in Port Shepstone, Uvongo Pier and Margate Pier last week. Many are eagerly awaiting the shad run that has every angler and spectator buzzing. Stompie Koekemoer from KZN Fishing Guides said the good news is that the bronze bream and musselcracker are back. 'With lots of game fishing around and with the water looking good, it looks like a great week ahead. Boat fishing is also picking up and anglers are getting good bottom fish and tuna.' The KZN Sharks Board has been carefully monitoring the status of the Sardine Run, and they have noticed small pockets of sardines in the area, however, most of the activity has been taking place relatively far offshore. A decision was taken by the board to open bathing at the following beaches: Hibberdene, Umzumbe, Banana Beach, Sunwich Port, Southport, Umtentweni, St Micheals on Sea, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, San Lameer and Trafalgar. The following beaches remain closed to swimming: Umkobi Beach, Glenmore, Leisure Bay, TO Strand and Port Edward. Tides times Saturday, July 5: Low 05:34; High 11:37; Low 17:37; High 00:11; best fishing 00:43 to 01:45. Sunday, July 6: Low 06:47; High 12:55; Low 18:52; High 01:14; best fishing 01:46 to 02:48. Monday, July 7: Low 07:43; High 13:53; Low 19:51; High 02:00; best fishing 14:25 to 15:27. Tuesday, July 8: High 02:05; Low 08:28; High 14:38; Low 20:39; best fishing 15:10 to 16:12. Wednesday, July 9: High 02:48; Low 09:06; High 15:18; Low 21:20; best fishing 14:46 to 15:50. Remember, responsible fishing is keeping the shoreline as clean as possible and abiding by the bag limits. Send news or photos to [email protected]. HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
