Coastwatchers believes the economic report by Strategic Economic Solutions, into the alleged impact of the Batemans Marine Park needs to be treated as a flawed document based on perceptions, predictions and misinformation and further feeds uncertainty in the community.

President Mark Fleming said, "The timing and focus of this report was very narrow and didn't engage the wider community when it was surveying parties. This has led to biased responses by the businesses who participated in the survey. To further skewer the outcomes of the report there has been a general downturn in tourism across the State due to economic influences that have nothing to do with the declaration of the Marine Park"

"If the survey was repeated today and factored in the removal of commercial trawling in the park then Coastwatchers believes that there would be different responses from the businesses surveyed."

He continued, "The report concerns itself with the possible downturn in the number of recreational fishers visiting the area due to the declaration of the park. Why would they stop coming? With the decrease in commercial fishing effort there should be more fishing opportunities for visitors to the area. This would not have been possible without the Marine Park in place."

This report must be viewed in conjunction with other retail business reports this week that predicts a downturn in retail spending for Xmas. The Eurobodalla is not immune to global economic influences and we need to come together as a community and ensure the success of the region in general and the Marine Park in particular.

Mark Fleming concluded, "The Marine Park compliments the Nature Coast brand for tourism in the Shire and will attract more tourist in the long term. A recent survey in the Hunter Region found that 85% of people protection of the marine environment as important. Coastwatchers are keen to scientifically poll the community to gauge their views towards the marine conservation."