Growing up along the shores of Adelaide, I've always felt a strong connection to our land and vibrant marine life.

 The sight of a shark swimming through the water or a ray graciously gliding across the ocean floor has always filled me with a sense of wonder and admiration.

However, this marvel is under grave threat due to excessive fishing practices, specifically targeting shark and ray species.

This crisis, highlighted and exacerbated by the early 2025/2026 Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), calls for immediate and decisive action.

Since the HAB, there has been an alarming decline in these species over the past 18mths+.

This decline not only disrupts the oceanic ecosystem, but consequently impacts biodiversity and the health of our oceans.

Shark and ray species play a vital role as apex predators, maintaining the delicate balance of marine life.

South Australia's coastline is unique. It is a point where diverse marine species converge, contributing to the rich biodiversity that is crucial for the ecological health of our waters.

Yet, despite this importance, our local governments have stalled in implementing effective measures to protect these gravely affected species, nor focus on the continued issue of "multi source pollution" entering our water ways and beaches.

The continuation of legal fishing practices, coupled with illegal ones, has pushed several species to the brink of great concern and loss.

With the recent HAB, which decimated the fish populations and disrupted the marine food chain, the situation has continued to grow more dire.

It is crucial to not only address the immediate aftermath of this environmental disaster, but also to establish 'long-term protection strategies.'

The government must impose a strict ban on all shark and ray species fishing along the Adelaide and South Australian coastlines, eg Gulf Saint Vincent, Investigator Strait, etc.

In parallel, we call for a "restocking" initiative aimed at reviving the population of these creatures.

'Evidence-based regulations' should be implemented to monitor fishing activities strictly, 'backed by appropriate penalties for non-compliance'.

We urge the South Australian government to listen to marine biologists, conservationists, and local communities who have witnessed first-hand the detrimental impacts of unsustainable fishing practices.

It is incumbent on us all to protect not just our beautiful coastline, but also the species that call it home.

Please sign this petition to help "protect" South Australia’s precious shark and ray species populations, ensuring that future generations can experience the same wonder and marvel that we have cherished.

Your support can facilitate meaningful change by pressing the government into action to safeguard our irreplaceable marine biodiversity.

Thankyou!