News & Alerts

Situation:

• DPIRD received a report of a possible shark related incident at approximately 10:15 am on 18 September 2026 involving a swimmer at Sorrento Beach.  
• DPIRD is working with WA Police and local authorities to coordinate responses.
• The City of Joondalup has closed all beaches in the City of Joondalup from J210 Marmion BEN sign in the south to J37 Iluka BEN Sign to the north.
• The beaches will remain closed until 12:00 pm tomorrow when officers from the City of Joondalup will reassess the situation.

What to do:

• Take additional caution in the Sorrento Beach area.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA).
• Stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X.
• If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and @SLSWA on X. 

What authorities are doing: 

DPIRD is working with local authorities to coordinate responses.

WA Police officers are in attendance on the beach, and a Water Police vessel is patrolling on the water. 

SLSWA Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter is conducting an aerial patrol of the area.

A DPIRD patrol vessel is on the water monitoring the area.

Officers from the City of Joondalup are on the beaches to warn and notify the public of beach closures.

Extra information: 

Stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X – x.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.