Good afternoon everyone, I would just like to thank all those who have participated and donated/shared this petition.

As we all know as of December last year regulations on Ray fishing were adjusted following the numerous brutal killings of some larger Ray species and left for dead on our metropolitan coastline. As of recent communications with Rec Fish SA they have told me that "Great sacrifices" were made, in regards to regulations changes.

It is within mine and many others oppinons that in fact not enough has been done to protect larger species of rays and not enough awareness with in the fishing community on how to release safely and or respect these magjestic creatures of the deep.

We know they are also a considerable By-catch issue but that also doesn't take away the fact that hundreds of rays a year are left with hooks internally, this is something that will non the less continue to happen unless the right approach is taken and is an animal welfare issue regardless, they are large  beautiful creatures that deserve more respect than they are receiving.

I will continue to push for the full protection of the smooth ray species and also a regulation change if they continue to wash up with equipment left in.

If they get to protection status this will mean people will HAVE to show more respect for these animals welfare and will be less inclined to leave them for dead on the beaches like they have so carelessly been doing because there will be More severe consequences for doing so. I am all about the conservation of marine life even if it means loosing fishing  friends in the process of trying to get this petition over the line or for further change to be enforced. 

There would be no need for this petition or a change in regulations if people could simply treat these animals with the respect they deserve and De-Hook and release them accordingly, but unfortunately this isn't the case and people are just un clipping there swivels or cutting there lines and leaving them with hook related mortality.

I have a strong, deep passion for fishing but also marine life, many others, simply have no care for marine life what so ever and so rules need to change and a higher level of protection to implement the care for so many species, particularly in this case, the Smooth rays.

Continue to share and spread the word of this petition till people leave the Rays alone and stop intentionally targeting them.

If your a fisherman and your offended by this petition, your part of the problem, those who love what they do also respect and care for everything in our seas, catch release and respect, or harvest as necessary.

Placing protection over Rays in this state is paramount, and I will continue to push until something is done about it. Let them roam without interference.