The Baird Government has announced that most of our NSW marine sanctuaries will be restored.
Nearly two years after fishing from the shore was allowed in our NSW sanctuaries, most of our marine life has finally been given the protection it deserves. Fishing will continue to be allowed in some areas until the NSW Government runs a public consultation review of protection in those zones. It’s not all we hoped for, but it’s a giant step in the right direction.
We could not have done this without our supporters who have sent tens of thousands of emails, made hundreds of phone calls and personally visited MPs across NSW. Our supporters have held banners on the beach events and community activities right across the State. Hundreds of business owners, divers and recreational fishers have spoken out to show their support for sanctuaries. Everyone’s hard work is finally paying off.
This decision comes just days after the NSW Government announced what could be the first steps towards a Sydney Marine Park. They’ve set up a ‘comprehensive’ study of the Sydney region for 2015.
This is a great leap forward for common sense but there is still work to be done.
In 2015, people from all over NSW will need to step forward in their local areas to help save the remaining sanctuaries where fishing is still allowed and to work towards protection for Sydney.
We will continue to show the Government that support for healthy and protected marine sanctuaries is growing by the day.