Hmmmm -- Monster Shark!!!!

Sydney Morning Herald online
Dylan Welch
February 7, 2007 - 2:20PM

Reports of a "monster" great white shark near southern Sydney beaches have got local authorities stepping up patrols.

Locals at La Perouse beach, Botany Bay, rapidly left the water about 8.30am today when a large shark was spotted nearby.

Surf Life Saving Sydney spokesman Steven Leahy said a helicopter made several passes over Botany Bay shortly after, but failed to spot the shark.

"A number of people have said it is a monstrous shark, up to 15 feet. Anecdotal evidence to us has been that it is actually big enough to create a wake behind it," Mr Leahy told smh.com.au.

After investigating today's reported sightings Mr Leahy said it was likely the shark had been around for at least a few days.

"It has harassed people, apparently it has come close to land, into the shallow water on several occasions.''

SLSS is planning to lay on patrols tomorrow morning at the beach, which is usually unpatrolled.

"We're hoping that we will have two Jet-skis patrolling the area along with an offshore rescue boat between 7am and 9am," Mr Leahy said.

There will also be several lifesavers patrolling the beach.

"When several people tell us that it's a monstrous shark and that it's been there the last couple of days and [that] it's been getting closer and more aggressive, then we have to take that seriously.''