It's believed further research and new technologies are the key to solving the shark net dangers around Newcastle's beaches.
Concerns for the safety of animals have again surfaced following an incident where a whale was tangled in a net at Merewether beach over the weekend.
Chris Tola from the Surf-riders Foundation of Australia says while the nets are a concern for whales and other sea creatures, its difficult to find a solution that keeps both, animals and humans safe.
Mr Tola says a solution to the problem could be found if more research is conducted on the safety and effectiveness of shark nets.
It's feared the problem is only going to get worse with more than 2000 whales, dolphins, turtles and stingrays caught in nets around NSW in recent years.