Phone messages for MPs turn the tide

Two weeks ago the team at Save Our Marine Life sent out an urgent SOS to help save our sanctuaries. THE big decision on the future of South West marine sanctuaries was imminent, and it looked like the fishing industry’s hired corporate lobbyists were going to have the last word. But then the tide turned…

The reaction from our Big Blue Army of marine supporters to the SOS was inspiring. In an incredible show of support, more than 1,000 people phoned and left messages with local Members of Parliament, sending ripples through Government ranks and a very clear message back to Environment Minister Tony Burke in support of marine sanctuaries.

In fact, we generated so much momentum that Tony Burke realised the political stakes were too high to just sign off on a plan generated by his Department. Instead, the Minister has announced that he is now intervening and taking charge of the process himself.

This decision means that we now have a few more months to make our case for the best possible outcome, turning the tide on the paid lobbyists who thought they were so close to the finishing line just a few weeks ago. We have put marine protection at the top of the Minister’s political agenda and summer gives us the perfect opportunity to put the result next year beyond doubt.

Throughout summer I encourage you to take every opportunity to help grow our Big Blue Army because the bigger we are, the more marine life we save. Let your friends know about the Big Blue Army using our simple widgets here. http://www.saveourmarinelife.org.au/send-to-a-friend

I find it inspiring that community action can be such a powerful force for good. Thanks to everyone that has brought us so close to an historic outcome for our marine life. I’m looking forward to 2012 when we bring it all home.