PADDLERS and toddlers have been warned to stay out of the Macquarie River following a possible shark sighting near the old Denison Bridge.
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Bathurst resident Cam Raman could not believe his eyes when he saw what he believes was dorsal fin break the surface of the water as he was walking beside the river yesterday.
Mr Raman said he also saw a “huge black shadow” beneath the water as he scrambled to grab a camera from his backpack to snap off a few frames.
“It was the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen,” Mr Raman said.
“There were a few birds making a fuss and that’s what drew my attention to the water in the first place.
“I know people will think I’m crazy, but I definitely saw a fin.
“I’ve certainly taken my last dip in the river, and I don’t think I will be letting my dog go swimming there again either.”
Mr Raman’s claims follow a summer where shark sightings and attacks were a common occurrence along the east coast.
There have previously been confirmed sightings of sharks as far inland as the upper reaches of the Parramatta River, but never west of the Blue Mountains.
But a shark expert yesterday said that while a shark in Bathurst was unlikely, it was not impossible.
“Sharks are like all water creatures - they will go looking for good food sources and clean water,” the expert said.
“The more pollutants we allow to be pumped into Sydney rivers and beaches, the more likely it is sharks will head elsewhere looking for a clean environment.
“My advice would be to stay out of the Macquarie River until we get to the bottom of this mystery.”
Mr Raman said he last saw the “shark” heading further upstream.