Controversial shark nets are being removed from beaches in Queensland ahead of high winds and rough seas.
Contractors on Wednesday began grabbing the nets which have been criticised by conservation groups for putting migrating humpbacks, dolphins and turtles at risk.
The nets are being removed from Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches with strong winds and swells of up to five metres expected across the weekend.
The conditions will put the nets at risk of becoming dislodged, endangering swimmers and other beachgoers.
On the Gold Coast, contractors began removing nets from Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Kurrawa, Mermaid Beach, Miami, Burleigh, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, Bilinga, Kirra and Coolangatta.
On the Sunshine Coast, they will begin removing nets on Thursday from Rainbow Beach, Noosa, Coolum, Marcoola, Maroochydore, Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, Wurtulla Beach and Caloundra.
Drumlines will continue to be baited and the Agriculture and Fisheries Department will monitor the situation.
Fisheries minister Mark Furner urged swimmers and beachgoers to follow directions and swim between the flags.
"Our top priority is to ensure swimmers and beach users are safe," he said.
"When weather conditions are unpredictable the department assesses the risk and, in this case, the safest decision is to remove the nets from the designated beaches."
