Shark fears no problem for SW surf lifesavers

Junior surf lifesaving registrations in the South West are swimming ahead, despite a drop in numbers at Cottesloe due to shark fears.

City of Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club youth director Todd Haffner said registrations for juniors were well up compared to last year.

“Last year we had about 250 juniors and this year we have already had 300 registrations,” he said.

“A survey undertaken by the Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club in March did not indicate a particular reason why members did not return.

“Some of the reasons members don’t return include conflicting schedules, kids find different interests or were too busy, but shark fears were not a concern.

“Lessons are a great way for kids to gain confidence in the water in a controlled environment which is patrolled.”

Binningup Surf Life Saving Club president Julie Doyle said registrations were just under what they were this time last year, but were expected to grow with warmer weather.

Dalyellup Surf Life Saving Club president Jenaya Bell said the club had not yet confirmed numbers but registrations were expected to increase with the warm weather.