There is deep unease about sharks in northern New South Wales. Here are some facts to keep in mind

Are shark numbers off the northern coast of New South Wales really increasing, as frequently reported? Even if they are, is killing them any sort of an answer? Humans have dastardly short memories, writes shark author James Woodford

There is a simple populist action that would quickly see a reduction in the numbers of sharks, including great whites, off the north coast of New South Wales.

It would definitely cut down on the number of shark attacks - so far there have been 13 attacks, including one death, in the area this year, which has been described everywhere as "a spate".