The Guardian
·Jul 2026
In my years of spearfishing, I’ve never encountered more sharks than now. But I know where I stand in the underwater pecking order
Increasing shark encounters in Australian and New Zealand waters reflect shifting marine conditions, rising whale populations and possible ecological cycles. Personal experiences with great whites highlight changes in underwater risk and shifting perceptions of shark behaviour. Diverging public attitudes toward sharks complicate discussions on safety and conservation, while rising sightings and bites around Sydney intensify concern. Improved science, monitoring and technology are identified as essential for managing coexistence in changing ocean environments.