Gowings progresses vision for shark-deterrent surfboard fins

A CROSS-INDUSTRY collaboration led by North Coast-based Gowings is underway to integrate shark deterrent technology directly into surfboard fins.

Lifelong surfer John Gowing leads the “Sea Surf Force Field” project, with recent shark attacks across Australia bringing renewed urgency to the mission.

John’s vision has evolved, over a lifetime involved with the ocean, into a focused effort to design a practical solution.

“As surfers, we accept the ocean comes with risk but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep pushing for better solutions,” said John.

“If we can build protection directly into something every surfer already uses, like fins, we remove barriers and make safety accessible to everyone.”

The core goal is the creation of a commercially viable solution integrating shark deterrent technology directly into the surfboard fin, thus removing the need for additional wearable devices or equipment.

The project partners include the fin manufacturer FCS, renowned Australian industrial design studio Vert Design, and academic collaborations with the University of New South Wales and the University of Wollongong.

Material innovation is a critical component and additional partnerships with the Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) will enable the development of advanced, lightweight solutions suited to surfing.

The innovation is designed to work with the inherent properties of the board, maintaining responsiveness, maximising lightness and ensuring minimal interference for the surfer.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) supports the use of personal shark deterrents as part of broader shark management strategies to reduce, though not eliminate, bite risk.

Independent testing has shown that electronic deterrents can be effective in deterring white sharks within a close range