Beloved Gus the Blue Grouper was speared illegally at Oak Park, Cronulla on the 30th of December, 2023.

Living there for 40+ years, Gus served as an ambassador to his species, as well as a friend to divers, swimmers and children. He also assisted marine scientists in diminishing urchin populations by eating them!

People do not think of fish in having personalities, but they do. Gus was friendly and relaxed, like a Labrador. Happy to be petted, and even happier to be fed.

By law, Blue Groupers can only legally be caught by rod. Not speared!! They are the state fish of NSW and beloved by all (just think of Tim Winton’s “Blueback”).

Whilst this breaks the hearts of Cronulla locals, aquarists, scuba divers and anyone who has crossed paths with Gus, the problem runs deeper. Australia is home to thousands of endemic and endangered species, aquatic and terrestrial, most of which are protected by law. By fining this man ONLY $500, it sets a precedent to any other people interested in harming our protected species. A heavier penalty must be subjected in order to enforce this law. 

A life is a life. Fish = Human. Gus was inhumanely killed, and the fisherman must receive the maximum penalty.