May 9, 2018 Rally calls for Government action to prevent shark attacks The State Government cannot afford to ignore the concerns of the hundreds of people from South West coastal communities who rallied at Parliament House today to call for greater protection from shark attacks, according to Shadow Tourism Minister Libby Mettam. Ms Mettam said speakers at the rally had made passionate pleas for the Government to not only consider the human lives being put at risk, but the ongoing damage repeat shark attacks was having on the State’s tourism sector. “A turnout of more than 300 people at Parliament House today is an indication of the concern across coastal communities and within the surfing, fishing and retail sectors at the McGowan Government’s inaction on this issue,” Ms Mettam said. “They are angry and feel let down by the McGowan Government given the impact an absence of shark mitigation has made to West Australians’ safety, our tourism potential and our way of life. “More than 2000 people have also signed a petition calling for the Government to act. Our reputation as a safe, world-class tourism destination is at stake.” The Shadow Minister said research had shown one of the prime drivers for 68 per cent of international visitors that came to WA was our pristine beaches. “Research shows a five-star surf break can bring up to $2.5 million in extra economic activity to the local communities,” Ms Mettam said. “The cancellation of this year’s Margaret River Pro alone saw an immediate $5.4million hit to the local economy. “News of international surfers not feeling safe at one of our key tourism destinations reached a global audience – BBC alone has an audience of 372 million viewers. “We’re not asking for anything extraordinary, we are only asking for what other States have delivered for their communities – smart drum lines and monitoring. “These policies have been a success in Queensland and New South Wales and tourists are choosing to go there, rather than here, where we have seen a 5 per cent reduction in international visitor spend and 12 per cent reduction in interstate visitor spend.” “The McGowan Government must act now.” Media Contact |
