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[Aussiebyron]

There is a link to the discusion paper regarding the protection of Grey Nurse Shark habitats in NSW. To those unknowing there has been a reduction of protection area critical habitats like Fish Rock and Green Island near South West Rocks. The Department of Primary Industires has evoked the restrictions to bait and line fishing around these areas as part of pre-election promises from the pressure of the local fishing community. Bait and line fishing has had a major impact on the population of GNS as this shark is classed as a Critically endangered species with sugestions that the East Coast of Australia has only a population of 2000.

The DPI has introduced a discussion paper which informs of the situation and also a submission to those that want to voice their opinion. Bare in mind that the submissions collected will form the major assestment to the situation and I STRONGLY suggest that you fill out an online submission and support the need to increase the levles of protection and ultimately have these areas zoned as Commoinwealth Marine Park.

Discussion paper: http://www.dpi.nsw.g...ssion-Paper.pdf

Online submission: http://www.dpi.nsw.g...view/submission

Scientific research showing the effect of baiting and lures on the shark population around Fish Rock: http://www.dpi.nsw.g...ey-nurse-update

Any Questions please feel free to contact me,

Regards Mark