We are now in the final year of our SOSF research-to-action project – ‘Solutions for Shark Fisheries in a Surfer’s Paradise’ – and are working to develop capacity and institutions so that our compensate-to-release scheme for Critically Endangered species can continue in the long-term.

As well as securing sources of sustainable finance, long-term success requires that fishers and local leaders feel engaged, empowered, motivated, and proud of their marine conservation achievements. In addition, following the successful live release of over 800 Critically Endangered wedgefish and hammerhead sharks because of our project, a key question remains regarding post-release survivability. Do all these released individuals go on to survive, or do some of them die due to stress and injury? Answering this question is critical for accurately quantifying the effectiveness of our compensate-to-release scheme.