The KZNSB services a combination of shark nets and recently-deployed drumlines, spread at intervals along 320 km of coastline in KwaZulu-Natal, thereby providing protection against shark attack at 38 localities. It employs about 170 staff members, most of whom put to sea on 15 boats to service the equipment. The other members of staff are engaged in research, administration, public relations, store-keeping and maintenance.
KZNSB boat crews launch from the beach before sunrise, often through rough seas, in a 6 m craft, powered by two outboard engines, known locally as a skiboat. The nets and drumlines are serviced about 20 times per month. Each net is pulled to the surface, where it is examined for captured animals and damage, a procedure known as "meshing". Each drumline is rebaited. All catches are recorded. Dead animals in good condition are removed for examination by the research staff, decomposed animals are discarded at sea and live animals, including potentially dangerous sharks, are released, with many being tagged first.
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The Only Organisation of its Kind in the World..."
