• The Solitary Islands Marine Park comprises 71 000 hectares of reefs, islands, and estuaries between Coffs Harbour, and Sandon to the north near Grafton.

• The Solitary Islands Marine Park Authority has released their draft zoning plan for the park.

• This is the first zoning plan of its’ kind for any NSW marine park, and has the potential to set a precedent for other parks such as Jervis Bay.

• Under the draft plan less than 7% is earmarked for complete protection while over half is still open to commercial fishing.

• This makes a mockery of the main function of Marine Parks.

• To write a submission simply write down a few points with your name, signature and a return address. See over for details…

YOU can write a submission and tell the authority that :

• Sanctuary zones are the only real way to uphold the main aims of the Marine Park. 7% is a token gesture to these aims.
• Large sanctuary zones encompassing a range of habitats should be declared.
• This is the best way to conserve biodiversity and manage fish stocks.

• Forward your submissions to:

• Feel free to express your own ideas in your submission, for example; you may think that all commercial fishing should be prohibited in the Marine Park. Be as idealistic as you want!

• For more information write to the above address or ring on
  (02) 9299 0000

• Send us your submissions by the 3^rd October.

All photos M Scotland