Stinger season kicks off with net installation

As temperatures rise across North Queensland, stinger nets will be re-installed at some of Townsville’s most popular beaches from today to help protect swimmers from marine stingers during the warmer months.

Townsville’s stinger season runs from November through to May, when the risk of encountering dangerous jellyfish like box jellyfish and Irukandji increases in coastal waters.

Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the nets were a vital asset to enable North Queenslanders to swim all year round and formed part of Council’s commitment to public safety during the summer season.

“With the heat ramping up, we know locals and visitors alike are heading to the beach to cool off and enjoy our beautiful coastline,” Cr Greaney said.

“That’s why we install stinger nets each year, to give people peace of mind while enjoying iconic spots like The Strand and Magnetic Island.”

From Monday, contractors will begin installing stinger enclosures at Magnetic Island, The Strand, Pallarenda and Balgal Beach. Installation is expected to take several days.

“Once the nets are in place, we encourage everyone to swim within the enclosures and of course follow safety advice like refraining from hanging off the nets,” Cr Greaney said.

Lifeguards are on duty at key locations, including The Strand, from 9am daily.

“While stinger nets reduce the risk, they’re not impenetrable. We strongly recommend wearing a stinger suit and always swimming between the red and yellow flags,” she said.

“Please avoid sitting on or interfering with the nets, as jellyfish can still wash over or through the sides in certain conditions.”

For more information on stinger net locations and patrol times, visit Parks, Beaches & Community Venues page on the Townsville City Council website.