solitary.islands@mpa.nsw.gov.au

REVIEW OF MANAGEMENT PLAN FORSOLITARY ISLANDS MARINE PARK and SOLITARY ISLAND MARINE RESERVE

Our Association urges the state and commonwealth governments to listen to marine scientists and increase the fully protected (Sanctuary Zone) within the Park and Reserve to at least 33%.  This will still mean that less than 10% of the NSW coast is in a Sanctuary Zone whereas the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recommended 20 – 30% by year 2012.

The recently released award winning documentary, “Sharkwater” should be viewed as part of the review process.  The film demonstrates the enormous impact of fishing on shark species.  It is essential that all sharks be given greater protection, especially the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark.

Scientists have long known that use of vehicles such as four wheel drives on beaches does great damage to the organisms that are the basis of the food chain on sandy shores.  Recent studies and the ABC’s Catalyst program this month made this knowledge readily available to all and there is now no excuse for allowing vehicles on beaches within the Marine Park.  The only exception should be those needed for management of the Park.

The removal of trawlers from the Batemans Marine Park was welcomed by recreational fishers as well as environmentalists.  Trawlers should be phased out within all Marine Parks as quickly as possible as the damage they do to marine habitats and non-target species is unacceptable.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment

Jenny Edwards, 
for the Secretary