From SharkSmart initiatives for safer beaches, to empowering recreational fishers with a dynamic app, Fisheries Queensland is embracing innovation to find smart solutions.
Keeping Queensland's beaches safe by embracing AgTech innovations
When you think of a perfect day at the beach in Queensland, you probably picture clear waters, golden sand, and the sound of waves gently crashing. What you might not think about is the cutting-edge technology working behind the scenes to keep you safe.
The Queensland Government's Shark Control Program, SharkSmart, is all about investing in ways to reduce the risk of shark bites across the state.
"We are trialling new technologies as part of our commitment to keeping Queenslanders safe," said Lyndsey Day, a shark education officer from the Department of Primary Industries.
"We're continually reviewing what we're doing and adopting the latest emerging innovations and science to make improvements."
Drone technology to the rescue
Drones are quickly becoming a lifesaver – literally.
As part of our Queensland SharkSmart drone trial, Surf Life Saving Queensland pilots are taking to the skies, giving lifeguards a bird's-eye view of what's happening beneath the waves.
The drones follow a set flight plan over popular beaches, scanning for sharks.
They use advanced cameras and AI to detect sharks in real time. They alert swimmers and lifeguards to any potential risks.
Results show so far that they're affordable, eco-friendly, and incredibly effective.
"We're seeing far less impact on marine life since the trials kicked off. Drones are much easier to use and more cost effective than helicopters."
Smart solutions: Catch Alert Drumlines in action
Another technology we're trialling is the Catch Alert 'smart' Drumline. This system has an anchored buoy connected to a second baited buoy and a communication unit. It sits about 500 metres offshore and sends a satellite alert when an animal is caught. The alert notifies a response team, who head straight to release the animal.
Bull, tiger and white sharks captured on catch alert drumlines are tagged and released away from the site of capture, when possible and safe to do so.
Acoustic tracking tags provide data on shark movements. As tagged sharks travel along the Queensland coastline, the tag 'pings' on an array of underwater receivers. This helps scientists map where and when sharks travel and helps to make Queensland's water safer.
Facing the challenges of new tech head on
While SharkSmart drones and Catch Alert Drumlines are powerful tools, they aren't without their challenges.
Drones, for instance, can't operate in bad weather – strong winds, heavy rain, or storms make flying impossible.
Similarly, murky waters, especially in North Queensland, can reduce visibility and make it harder to spot sharks.
Catch Alert Drumlines also require constant monitoring and highly trained contractors to respond quickly to alerts.
"In shark management there is no single solution, so we continue to research, and trial new shark mitigation innovations," Lyndsey said.
Software that empowers recreational fishers
Another standout innovation being adopted is our Queensland Fishing 2.0 app. It's designed to help the angler community to fish sustainably.
The app uses cutting-edge features to keep fishers informed and engaged while enjoying their time in the great waters of Queensland. Notifications provide fishers with insights to help them do the right thing and be compliant with fishing rules and regulations.
It also uses AI and fish recognition capability to identify a catch and capture key data to protect Queensland's valuable fisheries resources for future generations to enjoy.
This app isn't just a tool for convenience – it's a gateway to more sustainable fishing practices, aligning recreational activities with long-term conservation goals.
AI: the next frontier in fisheries management
Fisheries Queensland isn't stopping there. We are actively exploring how AI can improve data collection for fishery stock assessments.
By automating data analysis, AI has the potential to give deeper insights into fish populations for more accurate and timely stock management. This innovation could revolutionise the way we balance the needs of fishers with the health of marine ecosystems.
Last updated: 12 Oct 2026