The WA Department of Fisheries officers are continuing to monitor baited hooks they have set in Little Armstrong Bay, on the northern side of Rottnest Island, near the site of yesterday’s fatal shark attack.
Regional Manager Metro Tony Cappelluti said the shark believed to be responsible was reportedly sighted by colleagues of the diver, shortly after their friend was attacked and died from his injuries.
'The diver’s colleagues said they saw the shark, when it had nudged their vessel following the incident and told Police it was a white shark around three metres in length,' Mr Cappelluti said.
'At this stage there has been no sign of any sharks attempting to take the baits.
'Local authorities closed all the beaches on Rottnest Island for an initial 24 hours and they will remain closed while the area continues to be monitored.
'As time progresses, it becomes more difficult to assess whether any sharks that turn up are in fact the same shark that killed the diver yesterday.
'However, we need to remain vigilant in the interest of public safety.
'A decision on whether to remove the hooks from the water will be considered around lunch-time today.
'Even if the hooks are removed, the Department of Fisheries vessels will continue to monitor the waters around Rottnest Island.'
Mr Cappelluti said the vessels have gear aboard to track and either tag or destroy the shark, depending on operational decisions and safety considerations.
'The department will also be available to provide assistance to Police, as they carry out their investigation on behalf of the Coroner,' he said.
All shark sightings should be reported to Water Police on 9442 8600.
More details on shark safety tips are available on the Department of Fisheries website at www.fish.wa.gov.au/shark.
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