Today, I along with hundreds of locals and tourists witnessed a heartbreaking and distressing scene unfold before our eyes at Rainbow Beach. A majestic mother whale and her calf were left struggling for their lives, entangled in the shark nets that line our beautiful shores. It took over 8 agonising hours before first responders could arrive, and by then, the trauma and pain suffered by these gentle creatures were insurmountable. While the baby calf was freed, unfortunately the mother is still tangled with each hour eroding her chances of survival. Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident; it is a recurring tragedy that demands immediate action. 

Hervey Bay to Rainbow Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline, serving not only as a natural wonder but also a vital hub for tourism in our community. Whales play an integral role in this, enchanting both locals and tourists alike as they pass through our waters. Yet, despite their significance, the very structures put in place for human safety are proving fatal for these marine giants.

Shark nets, intended to protect beachgoers, are antiquated and damaging to marine life. According to a report by the Humane Society International, more than 400 whales and dolphins suffered entanglement and death in these nets globally last year. These nets do not assure safety, as evidenced by data from the Australian Marine Conservation Society that shows they don't effectively prevent shark attacks.

We urge Mr. Tony Perrett and our local representatives to embrace safer alternatives. Technologies such as drone surveillance, smart drumlines, and underwater sonar systems provide effective and non-lethal methods to ensure both human and marine safety without endangering our precious wildlife.

Please join me in calling for the immediate removal of shark nets off Queensland beaches from Hervey Bay. Together, we can protect the whales that grace our shores and ensure a future where our coastlines are safe for all creatures, great and small. Sign this petition to demand action from our leaders and save the whales from dying in these nets .