Living as a local ocean swimmer in Coogee, NSW, I've experienced the breathtaking beauty and incredible biodiversity that exists between the point north of Clovelly Beach (Cliff's Edge) and the point south of Wiley's Pool (Trenerry Reserve). This area is not just a playground for many swimmers and divers, but a vital habitat teeming with marine life. To the east, Wedding Cake Island serves as a natural barrier that shelters a dazzling array of sea creatures, plants, and corals, making it a hidden treasure trove of biodiversity.

Of keen interest to all visitors is the wonderful marine life we encounter.

*  Wedding Cake Island has at least 5 green turtles resident and many blue gropers plus thousands of small tropical and semi tropical fish, particularly in spring and summer.

*  Near the Ladies Pool on the route south to Wiley's Pool we often see turtles and the wonderful giant cuttle fish, it being an annual breeding area for this species.

*  Everywhere swim we regularly encounter Port Jackson and Wobbegong  sharks which are harmless, and occasionally Grey Nurse sharks.

*  Also we encounter many types of rays including banjo rays and beautiful eagle rays.

An excellent reference for all species we encounter in our swim please refer to the videos produced by Amy and Lucca at link: 

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=iamlucac  

No doubt there will be complaints from fishermen.  However almost all ocean fishing is primarily done on the reefs out to sea to the EAST of Wedding Cake Island and not within the Coogee Bay. Gordons Bay or Clovelly zone. As well, intrusion into the bay by larger fishing boats is limited by the normal 500M restriction zone out from all Sydney beaches.

Being local, there should be no restriction within this area on the small tin boats of the Coogee Fishing Club and the Gordons Bay Fishing Clubs which historically have fished here. The only new restrictions would be no rod fishing off the beaches as swimmers are often tangled up in fishing line, and of course no spear fishing in the maritime conservation area. Photos only

We have an opportunity to make a difference. Join me in urging our State  authorities to acknowledge the value of this part of our coastline. Help secure the future of our marine environment by signing this petition and supporting the creation of a Marine Conservation Area between Shark Point, Clovelly and Trenerry  Reserve beyond Wiley's Pool, also encompassing Wedding Cake Island as in the below map. This will provide the it same status as the Bronte Conservation area further to the north

Your support could be pivotal in preserving this magnificent marine wonderland for generations to come.

Sign now to make your voice heard.