Shark scientists from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) will feature in the premiere documentary as part of the Discovery Channel’s ‘SHARK WEEK,’ this Sunday on Pay TV. 

‘Summer of the Shark’ documents the sudden, dramatic spike in shark attacks close to beaches across Australia, and in particular NSW, during the summer of 2009 and scientists’ efforts to investigate the spate of attacks. 

Innovative research by NSW DPI Shark Scientists Dr Vic Peddemors and Dr Amy Smoothey from the Cronulla Fisheries Research Centre are highlighted in the documentary which aims to shed light on why sharks both fascinate and frighten us. 

"‘Summer of the Shark’ investigates the shark attacks of the summer of 2008/2009, as we try to identify the motives behind the attacks,” Dr Peddemors said.  

“We look at the evidence, be that a tear in the victims wetsuit or the wound itself to determine the species and potential size of the shark related to the attack.” 

The documentary also features research done in Sydney Harbour to investigate the movements of bull sharks in NSW, following the mauling of navy diver Paul de Gelder in Sydney Harbour in February 2009.  

“Our data provides a fascinating insight into one of the world’s most interesting shark species, and allows us to gain a better understanding of the previously unknown world of these so-called man eaters,” Dr Smoothey said.  

“The public should not be alarmed at the presence of bull sharks in our waterways, the fact of the matter is the ocean is the shark’s domain. 

“’Summer of the Shark’ will give viewers a unique insight into the curious and unknown world of sharks.”  

Hosted by Australian rugby league legend and fishing expert Andrew ‘ET’ Ettingshausen, SHARK WEEK kicks off on Sunday December 4, at 7:30pm AEDT with Summer Of The Shark.

Media contact: Sarah Wright 6391 3686 or 0427 075 167