For over 25 years, I've been fishing along the Goldcoast inside reefs, operating an indigenous fishing business that relies heavily on the rich marine biodiversity of our coastal waters. Over the years, I have witnessed a disturbing decline in the number of bait fish and other crucial fish species in this vital habitat. This decline not only affects the livelihood of indigenous fishermen like myself but also threatens the delicate ecological balance of our marine environment.

Longline fishing operations, notorious for their indiscriminate netting practices, are majorly responsible for this unfortunate depletion of marine life. These operators routinely exploit the Goldcoast, inside the reefs, to harvest baitfish in mass quantities. Such activities are unsustainable and have led to a significant reduction in the population of marine species that are essential for both commercial and traditional fishing activities.

The health of our marine ecosystems is critical, and it's our duty to protect it for the generations to come. Allowing the continued exploitation of our reefs by these large-scale fishing operations not only hinders the regenerative capacity of marine life but also jeopardizes the traditional and sustainable fishing practices that indigenous communities have depended upon for centuries.

We need immediate action to restrict longline fishing operators from netting bait on the Goldcoast inside reefs. By implementing strict regulations that limit or prohibit such activities, we can work towards restoring the balance of our ecosystems and support the survival of local fish populations and the communities that depend on them.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the preservation of our marine biodiversity and advocating for sustainable practices that favor both the environment and the indigenous communities who have thrived here for generations. Our coastal waters should be a sanctuary for diverse marine life, not an exploitation zone for profit-driven operators. Let’s stand together to protect our reefs and ensure the longevity of these precious ecosystems. Please sign and share this petition to bring about the change we desperately need.