Parliament comes to life with 3D marine sanctuary!

Western Australia's Parliament House sprung to life today as more than 60 inflatable marine creatures converged on its steps. They were there to help the Wilderness Society and others in the 'Protect the Kimberley' alliance to launch our Kimberley Marine Values report.

The report encourages the implementation of a Great Kimberley Marine Park to rival the equally special Great Barrier Reef in Queensland.

The colourful scene attracted a lot of attention, with both Environment Minister Bill Marmion and opposition Leader Mark McGowen coming down to check it out. Mr Marmion, a former resident of the Kimberley was happy to receive the report but was a man of few words.

The opposition leader, however, received a massive round of applause after assuring those present that marine protection all over Western Australia — not just in the Kimberley — will be a priority for the Labor Party during the upcoming election campaign. He also let us know that he thoroughly enjoyed the presentation, saying it was "amazing" and that he'd never seen anything like it before at Parliament House.

The Kimberley Marine Values report, which has been sent to all members of parliament, summarises a large amount of scientific research conducted in the region and identifies nine iconic places that need to be protected.

“A Great Kimberley Marine Park must protect these nine crucial areas for our marine life, if it is to become a global icon,” said Wilderness Society Marine Campaigner, Jenita Enevoldsen.

The Kimberley coast is as special as the Great Barrier Reef, but does not have the same level of protection.

“Time is running out for the Kimberley,” Ms Enevoldsen said, “For millions of years the Kimberley has remained unspoiled but massive industrial development has now been proposed. We have a responsibility to take this once-in-a-generation chance to safeguard the Kimberley for our future.”

Our 3D Marine Sanctuary was a fun, positive event with a great turn out. Thanks to everyone who got up to Parliament House so early in the morning to support us and help make this a success! To see pictures of the action, visit the Protect the Kimberley Facebook page.

The Kimberley Marine Values report is available to read online and can be purchased by donation from the Wilderness Society WA. Watch this video to hear community views on marine protection.

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Sign our petition and stand up for the environmental and heritage values of the Kimberley.

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