Issue #18
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On Sale from Friday the 9th of March 2008In Issue #18 FEATURES
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GreatShot08
Check out our MASSIVE photographic COMPETITION for 2008 Click Here for Details
Video Snippets
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Estuary Mangrove Jack |
TIGGGGER! |
Footage by - Chris Peiro |
Footage by -Chris Peiro |
Black Spot Tuskfish |
Yellowfin and Blue Sharks |
Footage by - Chris Peiro |
Footage by Steve Benjamin - South Africa |
The Great Australian Shark Count
Does the Great White, Tiger, Whaler, White Tip, Wobbegong and Port Jackson conjure feelings of uncertainty, fear or awe? “Most people would panic and get out of the water as quickly as possible” said Dr Adam Smith, National Chair of the Australian Underwater Federation, the peak group representing underwater enthusiasts. Skindivers are however a unique group. They love scanning the ocean for fish and also viewing the magnificent marine life that is available.
They describe the awe and adrenalin rush of seeing a shark in its environment. Nationally and internationally there are increasing concerns for the conservation of sharks due to high levels of fishing pressure and particular life history characteristics. Two prominent and controversial examples in Australia are the threatened grey nurse shark in NSW and Qld and more recently on the Great Barrier Reef, a study that concluded that some reef shark species are under threat. In each of these examples it is widely acknowledged that further monitoring data on abundance and distribution are urgently needed.
The AUF has been granted financial support of just over $70,000 for ongoing education and monitoring.
“We are delighted that the Commonwealth Minister for Fisheries The Hon Eric Abetz, has recognised the value of community monitoring, and the capability and interest of recreational fishers and skindivers to be involved” said Dr Smith.
Introduction and Benefits
The AUF has been funded by the Commonwealth Community for an 18 month project "Monitoring of threatened species and education of underwater fishing activites". Community Monitoring will give recreational divers and fishers some facts about what they do and also provide information for management. It will complement other Commonwealth initiatives for monitoring Grey Nurse Sharks.
Possible benefits for you to be involved
- Chance to obtain a FREE exclusive high quality wetsuits with “Community Shark Monitoring”. Limited numbers so these will be given in lotteries, and to divers who promote and participate in the project.
- FREE Fantastic Fish Calendars for 2008
- FREE "Great Australian Shark Count" t-shirt
- Be part of the AUF team of committed volunteers
- Learn more about sharks and the marine environment
- Make a difference to future management
READ MORE..........
