In response to a number of recent shark accidents that tragically resulted in fatalities, the West Australian (WA) government has announced a cull of Great White Sharks. Thousands of people are preparing to rally across the country to oppose this ineffective and barbaric proposal.

Carcharodon Carcharias is the scientific name for the Great White Shark. It is listed on the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) Red List and is a protected species, vulnerable to extinction. In 2012 a report was prepared for the Department of Fisheries, Western Australia, by Bond Universities, Associate Professor, Daryl McPhee. The report was titled ‘Likely effectiveness of netting or other capture programs as a shark hazard mitigation strategy in Western Australia’.

The report advised against particular shark control activities, stating that,”due to the environmental impacts of shark control activities, it is not recommended that either shark nets or drum-lines be introduced into Western Australia.” The report also confirmed that the proposed methods of shark control do kill turtles, dolphins, seals and other marine life.

Who: Jeff Hansen, Managing Director, Sea Shepherd Australia, Natalie Banks, Hon Lyn MacClaren, Senator Rachel Siewert, Ross Weir, founder of WASC(West Australians for Shark Conservation), Tim Nicol, Conservation Council of WA.

What: Rally against the WA Government’s plan to cull Great White Sharks and any sharks over 3 metres.

When: Saturday, January 4th, 10AM

Where: Cottesloe Beach, Perth (Support rallies held across Australia as well)

About Sea Shepherd Australia

Sea Shepherd Australia is a non-profit conservation organisation whose mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd Australia uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document, and take action when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. By safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately balanced oceanic ecosystems, Sea Shepherd Australia works to ensure their survival for future generations. Visit www.seashepherd.org.au for more information.
Jeff Hansen, Managing Director, Sea Shepherd Australia