Shark-spotting drones and helicopters are set to again patrol northern NSW beaches over the upcoming school holidays, but, for the first time, some of the drones will be fitted with a siren.
A remote control operator will test the new feature from July 1 by sounding the alarm to alert swimmers and surfers if a shark is spotted nearby.
Australia's Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair says the drones and helicopters have proven successful in protecting swimmers in the past.
"Last summer they spotted 571 dangerous sharks and assisted in saving two swimmers caught in a rip," Mr Blair said in a statement.
Drones will be deployed at Lennox Head, Ballina, Evans Head and Byron Bay if weather permits.
