Urgent Support Needed for Sanctuaries in NSW New Marine Parks

Zonings for the new Port Stephens - Great Lakes and Batemans Marine Parks are currently being decided. These parks on the NSW mid-north coast and south coast are, like all NSW marine parks, multiple use. This mean commercial and recreational fishing are permitted. Protection is offered in sanctuary zones which allow all non-extractive activities, such as diving, boating and swimming to continue.

The NSW Government is currently asking for public comment on their draft zoning plans for the parks. However, the Government draft zoning plans leave key conservation areas open for fishing. These include key habitats for the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark.

NPA~Marine, with local conservation groups, have produced its own zoning plans for the parks. These improved plans provide sanctuary zone protection for all key Grey Nurse Shark sites and other important marine habtitats.

Fill out NPA's online submission forms for these new parks today to ensure that real conservation outcomes are acheived. This is a rare and critical opportunity for you to help take a huge step forward in safeguarding NSW marine life. Check out http://www.marine.org.au for more information and to fill out your form

Contributed by Nicky added 2006-08-29

Replies of 1

AngleireS added 2006-09-22

Isn't it ironic that a Political entity (known as the Aust/NSW Govt) want to cash-in on Divers for about $30 a pop with some excuse about Grey Nurse Shark conservation...Sure, they can start with deregistering such places as South West Rocks as a Fishing Zone and help stop Newspapers printing specials regarding how great it is to fish in such spots. I don't dislike Fishing (enjoyed such times with my Uncle when young) but I agree that in order to make MODERN fishing more productive 1: Divers must do something more akin to Farming and Coral Production rather than just floating around and taking pretty pictures. 2: All Coastal areas must be Sanctuary Zones which will help the Boating industry in regards to people wanting to fish. 3: Scattered No-Fish Zones in various areas all along the outer coast and less so the further out...again a boost for the boating industry.

It's all good saying Fisherman shouldn't take fish but maybe it's time to start with Divers doing more to Farm the fish. A man-made Garden can be just as beautiful as a wild forest...agree? Bubbles.

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