6000 letters send clear message to Premier “Don’t Fail the Whales”

The Wilderness Society WA Inc
Joint Media Release
27 May 2010

The Conservation Council WA, The Wilderness Society WA, Environs Kimberley and the Australian Marine Conservation society.

Premier Colin Barnett will today receive 6000 messages asking “don’t fail the whales” from the community concerned that the Kimberley’s breeding grounds for humpback whales will not receive proper protection in marine sanctuaries.
 
The presentation of letters to the Premier this morning will be marked by the sounds of whales ringing out over Parliament and a 10m inflatable whale.
 
Every year the humpback whales give birth and breed in their home ground between Broome and Camden Sound, an area of unique and pristine habitat.

Conservation Council WA Director Piers Verstegen said the WA Government will soon announce its decision on a new marine park at Camden Sound but it appeared they weren’t serious about real protection for the whales.

“Only a large park with substantial sanctuaries will ensure the areas unique marine life is able to breed and feed without the effects of industrial development and overfishing.
 
“Unfortunately, at the moment all signs indicate the Premier is going to break his promise to protect this area forever,” he said.
 
“There is every indication that commercial fishing will continue throughout the marine park putting marine life at risk and the park won’t be large enough to take in all calving grounds.
 
“This simply isn’t good enough – and shows the Government really isn’t serious about protecting this unique environment, which is as important to the world as the Amazon and Great Barrier Reef.”

Note: The Don’t Fail the Whales campaign will present to the Premier the petitions on the steps of Parliament at 8.40am today with 10 metre inflatable whale!