Are WA shark attacks linked to sheep exports?

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Bid to link WA shark attacks to sheep exports

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 12 November, 2012 : - - A group of shark conservationists has called for more research on a potential link between attacks on humans and dead sheep thrown into the ocean by the live sheep export trade. Western Australians for Shark Conservation (WASC) is trying to revive debate on the issue, which was raised by Humane Society International in July after an unprecedented spate of fatal great white shark attacks in the state's waters.

The theory was swiftly shot down by the Australian Livestock Export Council, which said carcasses had to be disposed of at least 20 nautical miles away from the nearest land. On Monday, WASC said the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry had too swiftly dismissed the theory, although internal emails between department staff showed some believed it was worth investigating.

WASC said it did not seek to create hysteria among the ocean-going public and acknowledged the issue was sensitive. A Department of Fisheries supervising scientist said earlier this year that there was no scientific evidence to suggest there was a link between great white sharks attacks and the presence of live export vessels.

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Source: AAP

Autrhor: The Editors

Tags: Sharks, Western Australia

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