Lindsay Lyon

Over the last few years, talk of shark attacks and how to best combat them, has reached an all time high. Enter Ocean Guardian, a system devised to protect swimmers, surfers and fishermen from the possibility of unwanted up close and personal encounters with sharks.

Lindsay Lyon is the CEO of Ocean Guardian and we sat down for a chat with him to find out exactly how the technology works and why it’s useful for Australians.

Tell us about the work Ocean Guardian does…
In 2018, the Shark Shield company became Ocean Guardian®. The change of name reflects our bigger ambition – to replace shark nets and drum lines globally – to make you safe whatever you enjoy doing in the Ocean, while also protecting marine life. Ocean Guardian, powered by Shark Shield Technology, is the world’s only scientifically proven and independently tested electrical shark deterrent.

How did the development of this technology come about?
Ocean Guardian has worked tirelessly over 20-years in partnership with the world’s leading experts in sharks and independent universities, resulting in peer reviewed science journals confirming the technologies effectiveness in deterring sharks. The technology was first invented in South Africa in the late 1990’s in seeking a solution to replacing shark nets.

How does it work?
Sharks have short-range electrical receptors in their snouts used for finding food. Ocean Guardian’s government approved, and patented technology creates a powerful three-dimensional electrical field which causes safe but unbearable spasms in these sensitive receptors turning sharks away, including Great Whites.

Who is Ocean Guardian most beneficial for?
Ocean Guardian safety products are trusted by ocean lovers around the world including diving, spearfishing, snorkelling, surfing, fishing and for swimming around vessels. The company’s products are recommended safety equipment in professional industries such navies and abalone diving. In Western Australia the government provides a $200 rebate to surfers and divers who purchase Ocean Guardian products.

How does Ocean Guardian support the conservation of sharks and the ocean?
With no known permanent harm to sharks, our technology directly supports the conservation of sharks and other marine life by removing the need for shark nets, drumlines, and culling; ensuring the ocean can be shared – safely and in harmony with nature. They are the ultimate ocean guardian.

When will it be available for Gold Coasters?
eSPEAR, the world’s first handheld electrical shark deterrent is available for pre-order on the company’s website or on Indiegogo Crowd Funding site here. We expect the eSPEAR will be shipping to customers in May.