Stinger nets installed on Townsville beaches this week

Date: Monday, 2nd November 2009

Stinger nets are being installed on Townsville beaches this week, marking the start of the stinger season.

Contractor Uninet is setting up the net at Balgal Beach this morning, the two enclosures on the Strand this afternoon and nets at Picnic Bay and Horseshoe Bay on Magnetic Island tomorrow.

Lifestyle and Community Development Committee chair Cr Jenny Lane said the installation of nets was a timely reminder for both locals and visitors to swim within the swimming enclosures during the summer.

“The council funds the installation of the nets every summer so people can enjoy a trip to the beach and a swim in the sea with a high degree of protection from stingers,” Cr Lane said.

“People should swim within the stinger nets at all times and take directions from life savers who are on regular patrol.”

Swimmers also have the choice of the city’s public pools at Tobruk, Long Tan, and Northern Beaches Leisure Centre as well as the Rockpool and the water playground on the Strand, and Riverway.