Sydney Residents Flock to Netted Beaches Amid Shark Attack Concerns
In Sydney, Australia, there has been a significant increase in the number of people visiting netted beaches and ocean pools following a series of shark attacks in New South Wales waters. Over a span of 48 hours, four shark attacks were reported, prompting many residents to seek safer swimming options. Wylie's Baths, a popular swimming spot in Sydney's east, experienced unprecedented visitor numbers, leading to the implementation of a cap on entries for the first time in its 120-year history. The increased attendance is attributed to heightened safety concerns among swimmers, as well as public endorsements from notable figures like singer Nick Cave. Local councils have noted a rise in inquiries about netted swimming areas, although exact visitor numbers are difficult to quantify due to the unpatrolled nature of many of these sites.