The Wire

Veteran underwater filmmaker, Valerie Taylor, was protesting on the steps of South Australia’s Parliament House against proposed changes to marine park protection. SA Shadow Environment Minister, Michelle Lensink, introduced the Marine Parks Amendment Bill which will remove protection from 12 Sanctuary Zones, known as the ‘jewels of the crown’ on the coastline. The move requires support from Independents Martin Hamilton-Smith and Geoff Brock and, if successful, will come into effect on 1st October. It will give fishermen more rights in the areas, but Valerie says South Australia’s marine life is the most significant in the country and requires special protection.