My name is  Eleanor Godley and I swim at Maroubra Beach four times a week with a group of dedicated ocean swimmers. Over the years, we've grown deeply attached to this remarkable coastline, its vibrant energy, and its rich marine life. However, we have recently witnessed a disheartening decline in the number of large fish and other marine species that used to thrive in these waters.

The beauty of Maroubra Beach is unparalleled, but it's under grave threat due to the increased fishing activities. From the South End through to Magic Point, there is a noticeable rise in fishing endeavours including boats, line fishers, and spear fishers exerting excessive pressure on the marine ecosystem. This growing intrusion is upsetting the delicate balance of our ocean habitats.

Maroubra is a National Surfing Reserve and the marine environment is a key aspect of its iconic cultural value.

According to a study by the Australian Marine Conservation Society, overfishing is one of the leading causes of marine biodiversity loss.

NSW State of environment report 

This is particularly concerning in New South Wales, where local fish populations contribute significantly to maintaining ecological stability. Excessive fishing diminishes populations of larger fish, disturbing the food chain and leading to desertification of the ocean floor.

We urgently need to address this issue to protect our precious marine life around Maroubra Beach. Concrete measures can include establishing a marine protected area (MPA) that extends from the South End to Magic Point, banning fishing activity that is fully protected with a No Take Zone and include it as a Sydney Marine Park.  Such MPAs in other regions have shown remarkable success in rejuvenating marine biodiversity for example Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve in Manly.

The time to act is now. By implementing smarter, sustainable conservation practices, we can ensure that Maroubra Beach remains a thriving ecosystem for future generations of swimmers, beachgoers, and marine life enthusiasts. I implore the local government, marine biologists, and conservation groups to join together in safeguarding our coastline.

Please join this fight to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of Maroubra Beach by signing this petition. Your signature will make a difference in protecting our ocean's future.