Observation Tower Grant Program
The NSW Government has committed funding for building up to ten new observation towers per year on beaches or beach headlands for effective shark spotting.
Observation towers are not only useful for spotting sharks, they are also useful for spotting people in distress and for offering a clear line of vision when there is a big swell.
This funding is being managed by the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) through a grant application process.
It is anticipated that up to ten $3,000 grants may be made each year.
Who can apply?
Applications for funding are sought from groups like surf lifesaving clubs or local councils interested in installing observation towers in coastal areas of NSW. Joint applications are also encouraged.
Applications may be for mobile structures or to compliment fixed observation tower projects.
Who decides how the funds are spent?
The Executive Director Fisheries NSW will receive advice from a Technical Assessment Panel that will review all applications to identify the most beneficial according to the evaluation criteria and make recommendations for funding priorities.
Eligibility and Priority Areas
All eligible applications will be evaluated in accordance with the criteria set out below.
The evaluation criteria listed below is in no particular order, are not exhaustive and may be weighted according to the requirements of NSW DPI.
- Lack of existing observation facilities at the beach.
- Provision is made for the ongoing maintenance of facilities by applicant.
- Number of beachgoers at the beach annually.
- Number Sharks sighted in the past 2 years and frequency of sightings near swimmers.
- Number of hours the tower will be in use annually.
- Observation equipment may be considered.
Please note – funding is not available for jet skis.
