Rottnest Island shark sighting: SLS helicopter reports 2.5m species circling near Fays Bay

A large shark has been spotted circling near a very popular swimming spot.

The Surf Life Saving Westpac helicopter reported a 2.5m shark 200m offshore at Fays Bay on Rottnest Island.

It is the second shark in just 24 hours that has been sighted near the island, with a 1.5m unknown species being seen on Wednesday just 500m offshore of Bathurst Point.

The sightings come one day after authorities urged fishers to be cautious of large marine predators amid the salmon run.

Large schools of fish attract large marine predators, including shark species, close to shore.

DPIRD shark response unit manager Michael Burke said the SharkSmart WA app, part of the WA shark hazard mitigation strategy, could help keep ocean users and communities safe.

“We encourage all water users to download the SharkSmart WA app to receive near real-time information on shark activity,” he said.

“You can select your favourite coastal locations and receive updates as they happen.

“The app can also be used to help plan your trip to the beach, combining information on beach safety features such as beach enclosure locations, Surf Life Saving WA patrolled beaches and the weather forecast.”

Shark sightings can be reported to Water Police on 9442 8600.