Signatures 1-1000

1000. Anna Mandoky, Stateline, NV, USA
999. Not publicly disclosed, Oakland Park, FL, USA
998. Kelly Abraham, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

When will humans start using the one thing that puts us at the top of the food chain, our brains? Everywhere you look we are destroying the most beautiful thing we have, our planet. Why is trying to save something so obviously important met with such resistance? The term 'money is the root of all evil' is so frighteningly right. If people don't do something now, not soon or eventually, no NOW!!! Then we can all say goodbye to our world and our lives.

Stop the maddness!!

Don't destroy the sharks or mankind. Save the sharks and the world for the future generations. We want out children to grow to be responsible, loving and caring yet they are growing in a world of greed and selfishness. Make the right choice to save the sharks, ocean and the world for future generations to enjoy.

If you allow this to go thru it will destroy the ecology of one of your country's greatest resources.

991. Not publicly disclosed, Bronx, NY, USA
990. Jana Rajnohova, Banska Bystrica, Slovakia
989. Howie Cooke Byron Bay, NSW, Australia

Surfers for Cetaceans supports this petition greater protection of the Great Barrier Reef

988. Josh Dick Brooklyn, NY, USA
987. Georgia Tasker Miami, FL, USA

No, No, No, No – Are you mad? You will end up ruining one of the greatest natural beauty spots on this earth all because of greed.985. Leo Mori, Hiealeah, FL, USA

Being a born and bread Queenslander I have never been so disappointed in my State. Please stop shark fishing immediately !!!

976. Not publicly disclosed, Newington, VA, USA

Shame on you for even CONSIDERING participating in this barbaric, horrific, and unconscionable activity! You are an absolute disgrace!

975. Tanya Brunner, Tampa, FL, USA
974. Carly Newmarch, Kelowna, BC, Canada STOP IT ! Its not too late!
973. Julio Borras, North Miami Beach, FL, USA

Please act to discontinue these practices as well as implement measures to prevent and control shark fishing. These creatures hold the future of our planet and ours as a species with their existence, don't help end it by doing nothing about it.

972. Rachel Palu, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
971. Not publicly disclosed, London, UK
970. Not publicly disclosed, Pyrmont, NSW, Australia
969. Not publicly disclosed, Old Tappan, NJ, USA
968. Jessica Lemley, Cliffside Park, NJ, USA

Sharks are necessary for the environment and food chain. Do not break the cycle

967. Hayley Blose, Margate, FL, USA

I feel that fishing for sharks in the great barrier reef is one of the cruelest things in the world. Fishing for any shark for that matter. It doesn't matter where they are.

966. Jody Cavanaugh, Agnes Water Queensland, Australia

I am really shocked by even the thought that this is truly going on. How could this have even come up? Humans do not need shark meat or any part of them to add to our diet. This is ridiculous. As someone who works with the sharks in their environment and who is in absolute awe of the sight of them. I urge you not to let this go through. The ocean has its balance and sharks are a very important part of it… leave it alone. It is absolutely unnecessary. I am disgusted at the thought.

965. Dwayne Franks, Canyon Country, CA, USA
964. Michelle Sprigg, Redcliffe, Queensland, Australia
963. Not publicly disclosed, Sciez Haute Savoie, France
962. Not publicly disclosed, London, UK
961. Neil Rosewarn, London, London, UK
960. Sebastian Zavoico, Mclean, VA, USA
959. Not publicly disclosed, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA
958. Not publicly disclosed, Highland Falls, NY, USA

PLEASE HELP

957. Not publicly disclosed, Regina, SK, Canada
956. Steffen Neumann, San Francisco, CA, USA
955. Chris Quartly, Bicester, Oxon, England

Please don't let our generation be thought of as barbaric as the slave traders, we have a chance to try and put things right.

954. Rob Walker, Fleet, Hampshire, England

For a country who has a very good record in environmental management, I am shocked and disgusted at this latest stance.

953. Guy Lane, Townsville, Queensland, Australia

Ministers, please help the GBR become one of the world’s last havens for the shark.

952. Cate Barrow, Treharris, Merthyr Tydfil, UK

What about your tourist industry? I have dived the GBR many times and will not bother to travel from UK if there are no sharks left! Please set an example to the less well educated countries of the world!

951. Wee Peng Carol Chan, Singapore, Singapore

Please save the shark! Shark fin is just a luxury goods that did not as much goods to human beings...

950. Joanna Lane, Swansea, UK

I am shocked!!!! What on earth are you thinking?

949. Andrew Cooper, Hoddesdon, Herts, UK

You are so lucky to have one of the most fantastic ecosystems in the world on the Great Barrier Reef. Please think about your actions on allowing shark fishing in this area. There is almost nothing to be gained and huge amounts to be lost. It is entirely in your hands to protect the so vulnerable sharks. Please make sure the Great stays in The Great Barrier reef.

948. Denis Huntley, Pickering, Ontario, Canada

We as humans are the real danger not sharks or any other animal.

947. Not publicly disclosed, Townsville, Queensland, Australia

Sharks are members of a very important ecological group, the top predators. Removing them will cause shifts in the nature of the ecosystem as the relative abundance of key species change.

946. Marie-Eve Blais, Quebec, Quebec, Canada

It's time to do something!

945. Ian Williams, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan, UK

With all the legislation on cutting back on Carbon emissions you would think that the Australian Government would realise the effect that killing these Apex predators can have on the marine environment. This slaughter will eventually contribute to global warming and should be stopped immediately. You are for lack of a better phrase 'Selling the family silver'!!!

944. Not publicly disclosed, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Sharks are an important species and should be protected. Hunting of sharks captures many other species as well. Let the GBR Marine Park be a sanctuary for all marine species.

943. Not publicly disclosed, Clontarf, Queensland, Australia
942. Catherine Teng, Singapore, Singapore

Australia is not a cheap place to a tourist, if the goverment. can't even protect sharks in GBR, I will definitely not visit Australia.

941. Not publicly disclosed, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
940. Borut Furlan, Ljubljana, Slovenia
939. Sarah-Jane Mudge, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

This is a pitiful act of inhumanity.

938. Rob Stephens, Monterey, CA, USA

Please stop the killing of sharks for food so that our ecosystem can stay in balance.

937. Herbert Kornhuber, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
936. K McLean, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Sharks must be protected. They are extremely important to ocean ecosystems and we need them to maintain those systems so that we as a species can continued to have oxygen which we need to survive ourselves.

935. Krissia Flores, Englewood, NJ, San Salvador
934. Marti Paskal, Hanalei, HI, USA
933. Joe Paskal, Hanalei, HI, USA

S A V E S H A R K S and all wildlife and ocean life

932. Lavora Smith, Clinton, OK, USA

This is so wrong--please help protect the sharks and their ocean.

931. Andrew McLean, Clontarf, NSW, Australia

Tell them to wake up to themselves. Legislate against anything threatened such as sharks. Create heavy penalties

930. Not publicly disclosed, Kent, WA, USA
929. Not publicly disclosed, Staten Island, NY, USA
928. Hanshee Benoit, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

I’m so glad that there is a petition like this going around. Keep up the good job, I wish I could be closer to you guys and be a part of it, but for now the only way I can help you is by signing the petition.

927. Not publicly disclosed, Rogue River, OR, USA
926. Richard Oziewicz, Teslin, Yukon, Canada
925. Karen Edwards, Jesmond, NSW, Australia
924. Jon Slaughter, New York, NY, USA

Let's not drive these animals into extinction. Please.

923. Alex Wright, Freeland, MD, USA

If they pass this, then they are no better than the people who kill these animals. They can't pass this, it is unjust and unwanted. For them to even consider it is inhumane to say the least. Australia is known for their sharks, and the Great Barrier Reef and if they destroy either one they will be looked upon as evil and undeserving of anything. Say NO to this and remain with the sharks, not against them!

922. Deanna Walliser, Northampton, PA, USA
921. Hal Everett, Sequim, WA, USA

I have done 3 diving trips to AU. If this happens, there will be no more.

920. Jamie Zunno, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
919. Michael McGuinness, Schenectady, NY, USA
918. Not publicly disclosed, New York, NY, USA
917. Anne Hoggett, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
916. Erin Graham, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
915. Matt Lybolt, West End, Queensland, Australia
914. Lupo Robert Dion, Miami Beach, FL, USA

We will not continue to come to Australia if you don't protect these necessary animals. If you are educated on this subject, the decision is easy.

913. Ted King, Anaheim, CA, USA
912. Not publicly disclosed, Los Angeles, CA, USA
911. Halina Kobryn, Yokine, WA, Australia

All sharks should be protected!

910. David Williamson, Townsville, Queensland, Australia

The best available data suggests that this shark fishery not be sustainable. Please do not proceed with licensing this fishery. Short-term economic gains should not take precedence over long term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem.

909. Brenda Owens, Roswell, GA, USA

Respect all life forms. It's actually their habitat and these creatures should not be slaughtered.

908. Not publicly disclosed, Brighton East, Victoria, Australia
907. Not publicly disclosed, Sydney, NSW, Australia

I cant see how this is even being considered, come on Australia, lets lead the world on this not trail.

906. Shaun Leydon, Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Just because sharks aren't cute & cuddly does not mean they are any less important than other endangered animals

905. Russell Kelley, Townsville, Queensland, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea are the last stronghold for sharks. Shark fisheries are by definition biological vandalism - they target the species least able to be fished. The GBR shark fishery is not just wrong here and now, but, in the context of the parlous state of shark populations worldwide, is an ignorant act of wanton destruction foisted by commercial and government interests with a criminally short term view of our resources.

904. Not publicly disclosed, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Stop Shark Finning!!!

903. Lucy Buxton, Sydney, NSW, Australia
902. Ruth Reef, Taringa, Queensland, Australia
901. Not publicly disclosed, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
900. Antonia Whyte, New York, NY, USA
899. Angie Provenzano, Whitby, Ontario, Canada
898. James King, Parkville, Victoria, Australia BAN it NOW
897. Robert Zimmerman, Wadsworth, OH, USA

Please help before it is to late.

896. Megan Baumgarten, Rochester, MI, USA
895. Not publicly disclosed, West Chester, PA, USA
894. Robert Tarrant, Medowie, NSW, Australia

How can the Rudd government claim the moral high ground on Japan's whaling in 2008, when it now wants to Shark fish in the GBR. The writing's on the wall, in BIG letters, our generation must act, and now. This is a World Heritage listed site, let's treat it as such.

893. Sumer Saulnier, Owosso, MI, USA
892. Nancy Abramson, New York, NY, USA
891. Arminda Ryanq, Maroubra, NSW, Australia
890. Sierra Slonimski, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
889. James Sacci, Peekskill, NY, USA

With the increased demand for shark fin soup in Asian countries we must support restriction's on shark fishing. Otherwise the list of endangered sharks will continue to grow.

888. Not publicly disclosed, Marathon, FL, USA
887. Benjamin Baldwin, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

We all have to accept the mistakes we have made in our past, but in understanding the errors of out predecessors we all share in the responsibility to prevent further injustice. Please stop this slaughter.

886. Victoria Pennock, Sioux Falls, SD, USA Quit killing the innocent sharks.
885. Rozenn Trepos, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
884. Phillip Korpar, Maroubra, NSW, Australia

We must get a grip on reality and realise what we are doing to this great place and it's inhabitants. Its time someone who can make the right decision grew some balls and stood up.

883. Jesse Gendron, Ajax, Ontario, Canada

This killing needs to stop

882. Ryan Watson, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
881. Perry Edmunds, Springfield, MO, USA
880. Not publicly disclosed, Sydney, NSW, Australia
879. TC Fromme, New York, NY, USA
878. Ann Makinson, Huntington Beach, CA, USA
877. Jill Linta, Middletown, PA, USA
876. Not publicly disclosed, Spencerville, IN, USA
875. Not publicly disclosed, London, London, UK
874. Not publicly disclosed, Derry, NH, USA
873. Not publicly disclosed, Fredericksburg, VA, USA
872. Shea Brunt, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
871. Guy Watson, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
870. Marc Delaet, Kerkrade, Netherlands

Incomprehensible that in these days, when every other day a new report states that >50% of all shark species are under immediate threat of extinction, ANY government even would consider to allow commercial shark fishing. Even more so if this concerns a World Heritage Area like the Great Barrier Reef. I just wish for all responsible involved to take the wisest of all decisions here; do not contribute to nature's destruction when you cannot oversee the consequences, so OPPOSE to shark fisheries in the GBR and shut down whatever is in place already. "We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future." George Bernard Shaw. Marc

869. Lauren Sercander, New York, NY, USA
868. Peter Simpson, Sydney, NSW, Australia
867. Not publicly disclosed, London, London, UK
866. Victor-Manuel Hernandez, Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
865. Nadine Johnson, Avondale, AZ, USA
864. Julie Jordan, Adelaide, SA, Australia
863. Not publicly disclosed, Long Beach, NY, USA

Sharks are too important to the ocean and the barrier reef to lose.

862. Tony Hodges, Midland, MI, USA

Ignorance and greed, the same thing played over and over everyday throughout the world.

They should be left alone and protected. It's their territory, not ours!

It is absolutely crazy to even have to do this!

Stop killing sharks

Shark extinction would be the end of Australia...

Wasteful blatant disregard for nature if we don’t stop this now we will have to pay a terrible price, how will we explain that to our children?

I dove Osprey Reef eight years ago, it was a wonderfully pristine ecosystem. It would be a tragedy if it were despoiled. I'd never come back to Australia!

I think it is outrageous that a government allows fishing shark in this time, it seems amazing how people don't understand we are about to wipe out all marine life in OUR ONLY planet.

Top predators are absolutely essential to maintain healthy stocks of wildlife. Without them, the sick or the inferior are allowed to reproduce thereby creating inferior offspring that will have a much harder time surviving which in turn will eventually cause the species to become extinct. Top predators also take care of over population which benefits not only that particular species but other species that are interconnected in the web of life. It is immoral and evil to kill a magnificent creature such as the shark for its fins, even if they were abundant in numbers, because of the horrible waste and most importantly because of the terrible pain and suffering the sharks must endure. How are you going to justify yourself to God?

Shark fishing must end immediately! The world today cannot stand to lose more natural species to ignorance and commercial greed.

Now its known as "The Great Barrier Reef", let them keep fishing for sharks, and soon it will be known as....The Barrier Reef, or The Reef that once was.....or....you get my point.

As an avid scuba diver and Australian I am appalled that the Australian Government allows this practice to continue.

At a time, when the shark species are being decimated around the world, it is important that first world countries like Australia become leaders in the effort to prevent the extinction of sharks.

818. Jessica Lisa, Long Branch, NJ, USA
817. Mark Hiley, London, London, UK

The world is shocked at your support for this barbaric practice. Both your children, and your country's tourism, will curse you for the blind and misguided decisions you are making.

816. Ridlon Kiphart, Darby, MT, USA

Allowing shark finning in a World Heritage listed area is unconscionable. When will too much greed finally be too much?

I strongly agree with this ban, and appreciate your consideration in this matter. 806. Keri Rodger, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

To save the ocean's we need to save the sharks

I agree we should protect the Sharks.

I feel very strongly about saving the sharks!!! Many people are afraid of them but I’m not, I want to become a marine biologist, and I want to have some sharks to study!!!

Protect the Great Barrier Reef and all it's creatures, sharks included. Be a leader in protecting sharks, animals critical to the ocean's eco-systems. Thank you.

It's a shame that this saying it true "If Man can't Control it , Then Man shall destroy it" and this is what happening here and this has to Stop !!

Lets save the sharks stop the killing and help our oceans

Please consider the negative impact of allowing such wide-spread shark fishery in a time when we already know that we've depleted 90% of all shark species. I'd hate to see Australia join the list of the countries that care little about ocean conservation...that's not an image Australia should aspire to! Your reef is one of the world's great treasures and its sharks are a crucial part of it!

I am beyond upset over this decision. Sharks are key species in the ocean, and are becoming an endangered species. Humans brutally cut off their fins all for soup. How ignorant can man be? Please do not allow this to happen. Once sharks are gone, the ocean is dead. Once the ocean is dead, so is Earth. Guess what will happen to humans after that?

Action must be taken now. To sell out to big business isn't an option. You can’t sell what isn't yours. Hands off sharks now. To ignore the issue is gross stupidity. SAVE THE SHARK!

Please stop this now and save the ocean. To share this with generations to come.

As with the damage to habitats and ecosystems on land we seem hell bent on doing the same thing to the worlds seas and oceans. Sharks are a key component to the balance and equilibrium of Australia's reefs, removing these apex predators will wreak untold damage to the long-term health of those reefs.

ALL commercial fishing should be banned worldwide, for ALL species. Yeah boy, let's continue to decimate the worlds oceans in the name of greed and profit...

Please, please, please: prevent hunting these magnificent and indispensable predators to extinction! The whole marine ecosystem needs them live, and in the ocean, not cooked on our plates!

The removal of sharks from the ocean through long-lining or commercial fishing should be banned throughout the world.

Stop it now!!

I can't believe there is any question to the urgency!

Sharks are vital to the ocean's ecosystem. You risk destruction of the reefs by allowing apex predators to be destroyed. Soon you will have nothing but jellyfish or some other ridiculous imbalance as a result of permitting apex predators to be reduced or eliminated.

I find it incomprehensible that at this time inn history, with all that is know about the killing off and depletion of our natural world that the government of Queensland, Australia, would in any way permit or encourage the fishing of sharks or other marine life off its shores. I am a world traveler, a scuba diver, and have visited Australia many times in the past 35 years. The waters off of Queensland house some of planet's most precious residents, which should be protected and cherished, not targeted for destruction. For shame!!!!!

Please ban all shark fishing immediately throughout the Great Barrier Reef area. Please consider more sustainability, our oceans are being over fished, mismanaged and decimated, please do the right thing and protect sharks, before it's too late!

The Great Barrier Reef ecosystem must not be destroyed by greed.

752. Emma Davis, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
751. Nakhle Hado, Kingston, St Andrew, Jamaica
750. J B Medina, Gilbert, AZ, USA

Shark fishing is a very costly endeavor! How long can people keep killing the predators without consequences?

It is time we stop the slaughter of the earth\'s creatures !!!!!

Please take some responsibility in the earth and the delicate balance of our oceans. We as humans need to live in harmony with our environment and not always take.

Even from the high desert we can see the inhumanity of this.

Stop killing our sharks and ruining our oceans!! This is TERRIBLE!!

Please please stop shark fishing completely. The reefs are already in danger.

Save the worlds sharks! They are an important part of the ecosystem and to the health of reefs and the ocean in general.

People of power have also greater responsibility. Remember that. The Peacemaker wisely instructs them to make their decisions so that they benefit seven generations from ours. Think about that.

I love sharks! save them!

Stop it!

This is disgusting, what a hypocritical country we live in. Whales but not sharks are respected.

90% of the worlds sharks are already gone! How can any country, especially one that makes so much money off of the Great Barrier Reef and tourism even consider opening a shark fishery. In my view this is a good reason to remove Australia from my travel list and many others I have already spoken with agree. Shark finning is pure greed at the expense of an animal that for millions of years has been an integral part of the ocean food web. Removing it will no do doubt damage the overall health and prosperity of humans. Please stop this insanity now and forever.

Please save the sharks, they are very important for our planet. I hope it`s not to late for a turn.

Cruel. Immoral. Inhumane. Barbaric. Disgusting. AND, in a Wildlife sanctuary..? WHAT are you thinking?! Simply a Disgrace.

STOP this now...tomorrow will be later!!! and then?

Ban all shark fishing immediately in the word, not only in the entire the Great Barrier Reef area.

Please protect these beautiful and necessary animals, not only for our lifetime, but for the generations to come, and the health of our oceans.

Thank you for considering conservation issues related to preserving shark species. The preservation of these animals is an important legacy in the stewardship of our oceans.

As a former USAF Exchange Officer with the RAAF (36 Sqdn, 1971-1973) and a shark diver who has enjoyed diving on the Great Barrier Reef (Heron Island), I urge you ban shark fishing on the Great Barrier Reef to help preserve the sharks (Nature's fighter plane of the sea) which will help protect the ecology and maintain the balance of the world's largest living organism. Dick Brauer, Colonel, USAF (Ret)

This NEEDS to be Stopped! I can assure you I will never visit, support or recommend Australia if this goes through! To even consider doing this disappoints me and makes me look at Australia differently. It is disgusting for Australia to consider this!

Keep up the great work! We can make a difference!

These apex predators are critical to the survival of all species, including human. Please don't allow the netting of these creatures and many others in the process.

I am shocked that officials have no more consideration for such wonders in our world. It is disappointing that our chosen representatives are so close-minded and selfish.

I am a photojournalist who strongly supports conservation efforts and protecting other species. Please eliminate all shark fishing.

Please stop this atrocity!

No shark fishing!

Stop shark fishing now in the GBR!

Stop this cruelty now!

I am an accomplished uw photographer/writer, dive group organizer/leader and find it appalling that this decision to allow shark fishing in Australia waters is currently happening. I have decided with all my measures to pull out any and all tourism activity and any other positive publicity for Australia if this continues to happen. What are you thinking?

Australia is a modern society that must lead ignorant old societies by example.

As a frequent traveler to Australia (12X in the last 3 years), and with a Christmas trip booked for my family this year (12 persons charter in the Whitsundays), I must say that I'm appalled that shark fishing is allowed in Australia. When people think of Australia, they think of leading-edge environmentalists, and animal advocates like Steve Irwin. This runs counter to everything that I believe Australia stands for and will be a stain on its reputation and international standing. Please do not proceed in this ill-advised direction.

Enough is Enough!!

I haven't yet had the chance to travel and explore the Great Barrier Reef, but I will be most saddened if when I go there - the sharks are gone, because of shark fishing and finning industries. This must stop NOW!

If this does not work, try a petition on stopping tourism to Australia.

Sharks are a very important part of the food chain in the ocean, which covers more than half of our earth. If they are fished to extinction, the consequences are staggering. Please, we who care about the earth, beg you, please stop this mindless killing of one of the most important species on this planet. Not to mention the beauty and grace we get from seeing them in their natural environment. (they can make you more money as an ecotourism attraction than slaughtering them!)Thank you.

Sharks are CRITICAL to our ocean's health, and we have already depleted the world's population of sharks by 80%- we MUST put a stop to it. Sharks keep the ocean's free of disease and starvation due to overpopulation of the species they, as well as we, feed on...

You know what is happening, you know how sharks are endangered today, you know how important they are for life! YOU have to do something for these murders to stop. Please we have to protect them. STOP IT NOW

Please end cruel shark fishing NOW!!!!!!!!!

Must save the sharks.

The Great Barrier Reef needs to be treasured and its shark life protected!

The Great Barrier Reef is considered one of most beautiful and special places on the planet. That it\'s protectors have turned to it's destroyers is appalling. I beg you to reconsider these decisions and ban ANYTHING that would in any way harm this environment - including shark fishing and finning. The Great Barrier Reef is a treasure and a gift - please don't take it away from the world.

Please stop this awful, inhumane treatment of sharks. It serves NO purpose other than some stupid soup and depleting the oceans of one of the most important creatures we need to start respecting. Thank you for your time, Liz

Please consider this worldwide appeal. You are among the leaders whose policy decisions today will have a significant and lasting impact on marine conservation. Your legacy in choosing NOT to protect sharks may be an irreversible mistake you and generations that follow you will have to pay for. Thank you.

I believe that each species has its place on our planet; that each member of each species values his or her life; that each life is sacred and should be protected under a sacred trust; and that that trust is violated each time we, members of the most predatory and destructive species the world has ever known, through carelessness, ignorance, neglect, profit, or pleasure, harm any sentient, cognizant being. We have broken the bonds that bind us to the earth. Let us hope it is not too late to repair the damage that has already been done.

Really now.... Come on guys. Enough is Enough! We need Sharks & they are fast disappearing.

As an Australian citizen, and fisheries research scientist, I oppose commercial and recreational shark fishing. Instead, marine protected areas should be designated to conserve these vulnerable animals.

This is SICK and should be stopped !!!!!!

To allow fishing of 24 species of shark that are nearing extinction is absolutely reckless. Sharks take a long time to reproduce. Do the right thing, the only thing, & say no to shark fishing near the Great Barrier Reef.

I have been scuba diving for 37 years. I am gravely concerned with the future of the oceans and the changes I have seen. Please protect your sharks!

Please put an end to the plan to fish for sharks along the Great Barrier Reef!

I have made three trips to Queensland, to enjoy your beautiful country and the diving. I am appalled that you are considering a shark fishery given the proven lack of any ability of any fishing industry in any country to do anything other than strip mine the water. If it's there, they will kill it--then demand something new to fish out "so they can support their families". Forget morality and the environment. Do not allow this! A live shark to a diver is worth more to Queensland, than a dead one in an Asian market.

This is critically important. I ask you to act before we loose sharks forever.

This is unthinkable!!!! What are you doing? The whole diving world is trying to protect the vastly dwindling number of sharks in our waters and you are actually promoting it????? I was always of the opinion that Australia was a world leader in conservation efforts?? You cannot go ahead with this. it is going to have far reaching consequences than you realise? Do any of you dive? Have you seen what is happening under our oceans or are you a surface observer that does not really care about what you cannot see?? Our oceans and its inhabitants are in deep trouble and we as humans are the cause. How can you possibly make a decision on behalf of those that cannot speak for themselves???? Shocking!!!!

Please SirSharks are an apex preditor and are facing extinction in many parts of the world!2/3rd of the earth are ocean and phytoplankton produce 80% of the earths Oxygen. Now with the demise of sharks means more predators eating the plankton.. so further reducing the intake of CO2 and output of Oxygen!! STOPPING shark finning, is not just about saving sharks, its about saving humanity and the Earth!! Please stop this cruel and heartless proposal!

Stop all shark fishing immediately. Please.

Please stop all shark fising immediately. If have any doubts, please make sure you watch the film 'Sharkwater' and if that doesn't answer all your questions, please inform yourself more, and take action immediately to stop shark fishing. Thank you.

For a cleaner and safer ocean and environment for your children and theirs, please think again and stop the killing of sharks. You cannot possibly sustain a population of these slow breeding animals to the amount fisheries will catch. It would be impossible. Think again before extinction!

I cannot comprehend that Australia would even contemplate such a thing as this!! Your country is supposed to be a world leader in conservation efforts!!!!

The planet is in crisis and we need to act now to save every little bit left that we haven’t ruined. Not set about ruining the rest. We are on the point of killing a whole planet. Stop planetcide!

If our oceans die, the planet dies. To continue to decimate the top of the food chain inevitably negatively impacts upon the rest of that chain. Please help to stop the destruction of our oceans now.

Don’t fish sharks, save the world

I thought Australia was better than the obviously I was wrong

What is more important than biodiversity? Nothing.

It amazes me that as another species heads for extinction the only thing we can think of doing is to speed up the process by legalising the killing of it

Sharks have little genetic diversity and need to be conserved now!

This trade is a shame. Where there is lucrative business, there is no compassion. I'm so disgusted, I think definitely that vegetarianism is the future!

If the Great Barrier Reef is depleted further of sharks, Queensland will lose a huge percentage of its tourist population.

I urge those involved to please stop this dreadful cruel practice before many more thousands of sharks have to die in such a painful way.

I am not a rabid environmentalist but do strongly believe in conservation. Shark numbers are crashing worldwide because of over fishing and exploitation. As a scuba diver who has dove Australia before and plans to do so again, please ditch the idea of creating a shark fishery. A short-term gain will cost you more in the long run.

Please stop the killing!!

Sharks have every right to be in the ocean its their territory NOT MAN'S! Stop the killing NOW!!!

Dear Sirs, I am planning a 3 week trip to Australia this summer to dive the GBR, along with my family (as proof, my ETA is ref #8028302). Our budget for the trip is over 15,000 euros. This is the commercial value of 100 fished sharks, or more. Further, we frequently return to favorite holiday destinations, whereas a shark carcass is difficult to sell more than once. One motivating factor to my decision was that much of the GBR is protected, with strong effort to preserve its natural beauty. I am therefore shocked to learn that you wish to threaten it by introducing such a destructive policy. Had I known of this, I would have booked my holiday elsewhere. Please reconsider your decision. I think if you look at the total picture you will also see that it is both economically and environmentally a losing proposition. The petition states that you expect a short-term financial gain. I would be surprised if you realize a gain even in the short-term.

It would be such a shame to distroy the ecosystem in your beautiful GBR! Please don't!!!

Sharks are a vital and highly threatened part of the marine ecosystem. Due to their very slow rates of sexual maturity and low reproductive rates, virtually any commercial shark fishery is not sustainable, and will inevitably result in population crashes -- not only of targeted shark species, but many other reef species, whose fate is intertwined with that of sharks. Please do the environmentally responsible thing and save Queensland's marine ecosystem by giving sharks the protection they need to continue their critical role in the marine ecosystem.

Please - leave the sharks alone!

I am just speechless!...and ashamed to belong to the species of homo sapiens. Is this what we call intelligence? Brain stops working if there is money involved. Shame on you!

SAVE THE SHARKS!!!!!

Always ready to fight

stoppons cette barbarie

This quite honestly makes absolutely no sense, particularly with the current attention that shark finning practices are currently receiving. Are the powers that be honestly ignoring the recommendations of our scientists that much?? Makes me wonder at times why we bother to produce the research in the first place when it is evidently ignored by those who have the opportunity to make a real difference.

I do not understand how can this issue is still not being understood and concerned by the people in the 21st century.

I am disgusted at Australian Politicans. What are you thinking? Do we want to join hands with China in this disgusting barbaric and cruelty to these sharks and for what???? Who is profiting from this. To take a shark’s fins for what so, Chinese people can enjoy soup. That is the most barbaric and disgusting thing humanity and Australia can do. Sharks are ecologically important for the oceans that are already dying.

What do we leave to the future?

I have dived Australian waters on perhaps a dozen trips to your country. The waters and their animal and plant life have been nothing short of beautiful and healthy. By allowing shark fisheries, your waters are seriously at risk to lose their health and beauty.

Please stop it

Outrageous!

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!!!!

As a long-term diver and user of the GBR, I personally have witnessed the relentless degradation over the last 2 decades. Not protecting what is left of the sharks from human despise is an irreparable blow, probably fatal, to the GBR. Even just as garbage collectors, sharks pay a huge role in reef health.

Please do not live in the future only to regret the actions we take today. Please think of the well-being of our children in the future.

Shark finning is one of the most wasteful uses of marine life there is. It is said that the sea floor around Florida is littered with the bodies of sharks whose fins have been cut off. I believe that the only fishing that should be allowed anywhere is subsistence fishing for local communities. The oceans and reefs of the world cannot support commercial fisheries of any kind any longer. It's time to wake up and face reality, so that fish and marine mammals can survive to the next century. Please do the right thing and conserve what remains of our sharks and other marine life. The world is dying. Please do the right thing and protect your incredible Barrier Reel from all commercial fishing and protect sharks in all Australian waters. Thank you.

Sharks are so important to the Reef - please protect them. It is time to end the cruel shark fin trade, and Australia can be a leader in this noble effort.

My husband and I just returned from diving the GBR. What an incredible trip! We have been promoting the experience. The GBR needs to kept intact, including the sharks.

Please stop this absurd behavior have any of you realised that humans are in plague!!! This is a very educated viewpoint in fact we are the species that should be culled!! Have a look at the countries that are over populated!

Sharks get you more through tourism than fishing.

God Bless Australia!!!

Please do not allow shark fishing of any kind especially with-in the Great Barrier Reef. Thank You.

Stop lowering Queensland's credibility to that of a 'Banana Republic' that is hell bent on suppling our corrupt asian neighbours!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm truly scared of what our society is turning into. With greater understanding of how Earth functions and stays alive why are our governments on a mission to kill it and all of us with it? This is now a time for preservation and to minimize ignorance towards the creatures that have safe guarded our oceans for hundreds of millions of years, maybe it’s our time to step up????

How can the world right itself when it's leaders are acting so wrong?

Given the stand I've seen Australia take in protecting whales, and given how important dive tourism is to Queensland,, I am SHOCKED that Australia and Queensland, are not doing all it can to protect sharks, not exploit them. As a frequent visitor to your great country, this has really changed my opinion of Australia and Queensland!

Shark fishing is unsustainable anywhere and is particularly stupid on or around the Barrier Reef which is already coming under human induced stress. You should be prosecuting everyone who kills a shark.

It is alarming that Australia would establish a shark fishery at this time.

Have you consulted the Australian public by whom you represent on this matter. I wonder if the public was consulted, there would be absolutely no support for this absurdly hypocritical policy that is being implemented. How can a government oppose other countries and lead the fight if we introduce policies such as this.

Nuff said

As a diver and lover of the oceans and nature, and a Wilderness Search and Rescue volunteer, this has to stop. Protect our wildlife...

This is a disgrace, has the government learned nothing from their previous foolish mistakes? Why must we suffer for their greed?

The Great Barrier Reef is a world heritage area and has already been desecrated enough by pollution and introduced species. WHY does our government insist on pushing the limits of the environment? Why must it come to a point of cure rather than prevention? Why must we suffer for the governments wrong and money driven decisions? NO MORE!

Such action is a very short sighted policy.

I believe that the decline of the shark population is at a critical stage. They must be protected for future generations (of SCUBA divers as well) and to preserve the health and integrity of our oceans.

This is outrageous. Allowing licenses to fish for sharks in the Great Barrier Reef is like asking for most shark species to be put on the endangered species list.

Finning is so wrong that you may go to hell for having anything to do with its promotion

NO WAY! I have started a petition of my own against this utterly unplanned and blind money making expedition and I have 300 or more signatures already! There is no way that the people of Queensland, or anywhere else in this country are going to allow this suicide. What happened to the integrity of politics? Lena Saunders

Seeing live sharks is one of the biggest thrills in scuba diving. Sharks need to be protected, not fished.

Please please stop this horrific act

With 90% of the Shark population having being destroyed we look to Australia to be in the forefront to protecting sharks so that other countries may follow suit. Thank you for considering banning shark harvesting.

It's unthinkable that Australia is even contemplating toppling a fragile ecosystem like the Great Barrier Reef. Sharks are the stewards of the sea and must be protected; I seriously hope they re-think their position on this.

Please...think of these beautiful creatures before we destroy the species....a travesty

The financial gains from any shark fishing industry is far outweighed by the financial gains from tourism. More importantly, the entire ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef is under tremendous pressure for a multitude of reasons. I strongly urge you to take a hands off stance in terms of human interference which would potentially lead to further degradation of one of your and the planet's most valuable resources. Well considered access to these resources is essential and time is of the essence!

Is this the precedent Australia plans to set? Tell the rest of the world that exploiting endangered species in marine protected areas? I hope better judgement prevails.

Please preserve Sharks and Nature.

Need another species go extinct for the sake of vanity and ignorance? Stop the killing now!!!

Sharks need to be protected or our future will never be the same

This is outrageous!

Protect our Oceans, for our children’s benefit!!

Please leave the sharks alone. We are decimating our marine populations all over the world and it has to stop. What will be left for future generations to understand and admire and not just fear about sharks?

Absolutely NO Shark Fishing in Australian waters whatsoever! The issuing of Shark Fishing Permits on the Great Barrier Reef is outrageous as sharks the World over are in 90% decline due to the Oriental demand for Shark Fins. Australia must not condone Shark Fishing for any reason.

Has the Australian Government gone completely mad, the new Government was so pro-environment to get the votes in, now they have done a complete 180. Typical hypocritical politicians. First the pathetic action (or in-action) with the Japanese whalers and now this in their own back yard. Maybe they should watch there own "Visit Australia" promotion videos where the Great Barrier Reef is one branded as one of their biggest natural wonders!!

Please stop this proposed fishery as it is not justified scientifically as a sustainable fishery.

As a marine scientist I am strongly opposed to the existence of shark fishery licenses on the GBR. Valid existing fishery licenses should be bought back and targeted shark fishing commercially and recreationally banned.

I can't believe that Australia is planning to support a Shark killing industry.???!!! You've got to be kidding! Please don't do this. Do you have any understanding of how bad an idea this is?? Shark finning needs to be stopped. It's wasteful, unecological and threatens the continued existence of shark species. Please stop this horrible business.-Hank RaymondSouth Lake Tahoe, CAUSA

Stop the fishing - NOW

Species protection should have the highest priority for any government. We are facing the largest mass extinction event due to our own species.

Morons! I suggest those who would approve a shark fishery should consider what happens to the ocean's ecosystem when all the sharks are gone? The body of evidence that exists today surrounding the need to have sharks in the environment is irrefutable.

Save our sharks.org in the UK are striving to protect sharks, surely australia is ahead of us in realising that reducing sharks diminishes not only the ecosystem but us as humans.

I'm only a pom, but I think this stinks! I will travel around the world to see sharks and I will spend a lot of money to do it - but NOT in Australia, it seems.

I have always wanted to visit the Great Barrier Reef, but I know that seeing fishing in the reef would be too upsetting and ruin the joy of visiting this special place.

I was outraged when I heard about this and am truly shocked that a country as aware as Australia would even consider this. I welcome and appreciate any efforts concerning this!

Please help us save sharks!

If Australia does not change its policies, I may have to question whether I will plan a return visit.

What a bad and MAD idea!!!!!

I am sickened and appalled! As a lover of the ocean we need these beautiful creatures to balance the ecosystem of the sea. Why do we humans continue to seek and destroy?

Based on all scientific research, this is an outrage, it is unsustainable, and it is a heinous act against the environment. Australia needs to lead by example. The "if you can't beat them join them" mentality will get us nowhere.

I am horrified that the DPI&F could even consider such a shocking proposal. It's nothing less than criminal. It's like recommending that an elephant farm should be set up so that we could keep up a supply of ivory. The idea of killing any animal for just a part of its body is a shameful measure of our greed and arrogance.

Why are we spending billions looking for life in space instead of protecting and cherishing life on earth? Please don't kill the life of our planet.

Shark populations are crashing worldwide. Australia cannot claim stewardship of its iconic Great Barrier Reef if we allow a fishery of this vulnerable and important functional group in the food chain. The Great Barrier Reef will be a less great reef without the sharks, and Australia will be less great country if it allows the dedicated shark fishery to take place.

The damage done to the environment, and ultimately ourselves, due to our short term interests is frightening and preventable. The reefs of Australia and Papua New Guinea are suffering; please do not add to the carnage.

Sharks: A crucial part of the coral reef ecosystem!!

I am disgusted that my state government would even consider this proposed shark fin fishery. A move like this would certainly change my vote AGAINST the State ALP.

Please stop shark fishery!!

Shark finning is one of the most senseless acts I’ve seen. This is not the sort of thing intelligent people would allow, so prove yourselves intelligent and keep these sharks safe from the worlds worst predators of all ... human beings.

As a species we have shown all aspects possible, humane and insane. Let us at this time of need show some compassion and change into what we are ultimately designed to be... Man the HUMAN BEING not Man THE ANIMAL.

What a joke, we cannot just abuse animals in this way. You all have much to answer for.

Shark fishing cannot be made sustainable. This is a very irresponsible proposal given that shark species worldwide are in a state of decline.

Shark fishing of any type has been identified around the world as being unsustainable and having serious long term effects on the marine ecosystem. To implement such an industry in a world heritage listed area in 2008 when we all know better is total insanity.

I am speechless that people would be so greedy and unthinking! Sharks are a vital part of the ecosystem and we are basically destroying ourselves by depleting them in this way. They are beautiful creatures that deserve our respect and care.

Don't destroy the shark population and the Great Barrier Reef...please!

I have been to the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland for snorkeling. Part of the beauty of the reef is the sharks. They are a part of the entire eco system -- to "fish" them for commercial, or any purposes, is outrageous and irresponsible to the earth's environment and, more specifically, to the oceans. We need them to live...there is no amount of money that can buy life. Think before you pass a harmful law/act.

This is incredible! Thank you!

I actually thought shark finning was on its way out, there will always be illegal activities going on, whether it be shark finning, whaling, or some other kind of poaching, but to allow it!!! In the Great Barrier Reef no less! I'm so sick of everyone just trying to make some more coin. It's leading to our demise at such a fast rate. Is it really worth it? There is so much more to life then excess. Like living for example, and letting other living things live. I feel sorry for marine life and all animals really, because they can all live fine and dandy in a perfect balance. But us, we're not only killing each other with our profit minded decisions, we're killing millions upon millions of innocent inhabitants. I could rant forever, and perhaps you have stopped reading. But I urge you PLEASE! Do not allow shark finning. Have some real foresight and come up with something that makes sense and it isn’t a quick cash grab that will devastate the reefs ecosystem permanently.

Shark fishing is not sustainable in any form due to there low breeding numbers and late maturity in life. There has never been too many sharks in the ocean.

Sharks must be protected!

Haven't the Indonesians etc. decimated the shark population enough, without us adding to it? Really stupid!

Mining on nature reserves, shark fishing on the barrier reef... what's next Anna? Do you want to leave a legacy or be remembered for get-rich-quick schemes that will inevitably destroy our state?

As a marine biologist my job is to teach children the importance of protection sharks for the future of The Great Barrier Reef. This is contradictory and very irresponsible, again another political decision for short term gain with long term dramatic consequences. Shame on the government.

Please consider deeply what you are about to endorse. Shark fishing is not necessary. I'd like to think we are beyond taking yet more species to a point where we only have the privilege of viewing the animal within the confines of an aquarium. Please prevent the fishing of sharks. truly believe they are our ocean's "canary in the mine" and need to be protected instead of exploited. Thank you for your time. Andrea

307. Fiona O'Connell, South Melbourne, Australia
306. Raina Huebner, Johnston, RI, .
305. Not publicly disclosed, Avalon, NSW, Australia
304. Serge Abourjeily, Mutlangen, Baden Wrttemberg, Germany
303. Not publicly disclosed, Nelson, New Zealand
302. Andrew Miners, Sorong, ndonesia, United Kingdom
301. Ailsa McOscar, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
300. Kim-nora Moses, New York, NY, USA

Shark fishing ideally should stop.

299. Lisa Collins, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Knowing that The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australias main tourist attraction, it is absolutely CRAZY to think they would want to spoil that. The Australians are all for "enviromental issues" - it doesnt look that way at all if they are considering such a ridiculous corrupt "law"! PATHETIC.....

298. Not publicly disclosed, Gatineau, Qubec, Canada
297. J Brian Imhoff, Wakefield, RI, USA

As a diver I oppose the arbitrary killing of any natural ocean species including the shark. It is our privilege to live on this planet with other species, not out right to destroy them.

It is madness for finning to occur on the GBR . Indeed why must it occur at all in Australian waters?

295. Chris Cooper, Boulder, Colorado, USA

I have fished the Coral Sea and it is the one of the few places left in the world where the entire food chain is in tact. PLEASE keep it that way.

294. Tara Hicks, Mornington, Victoria, Australia

I can't believe the Queensland government is even considering this it's a huge step backward for sharks of the world. Please save these beautiful animals293. Samuel Roberts, Salford, Greater Manchester, England

292. Not publicly disclosed, Derry, NH, USA
291. Not publicly disclosed, Holualoa, Hi, USA
290. Heather Rasnick, Bell Canyon, CA, USA

Please ban the senseless killing of these wonderful ocean creatures. I love diving your beautiful countries reef and hope to return one day, I do hope there are still sharks to watch in their place in the world.

A national park should be protected from exploitation, especially one as well known and loved as the Great Barrier Reef!

To the Australian Government, Have you completely lost your minds? The entire world is against the barbaric action of shark finning and now you want to create a shark finning farm writhing your own waters? What\'s that going to do to your tourism dollars? Wake up already.

To the Honorable Gentlemen, I had the good fortune of visiting and filming for (name concealed by the editor) the abundance of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife that exists in your great province. I am truly saddened to learn the authorities are considering the introduction of shark fishing in a way that is incompatible with existing conservation science. I urge the Hon. authorities to reconsider these decisions and the impact this may have on the survival of the species.

Are we going backwards with this whole shark preservation thing or what? I hope to God not!

284. Gordon Klein, Albuquerque, NM, USA
283. William Kerr, Woodstock, NY, USA
282. Cindi Laraia, San Rafael, CA, USA

STOP DO NOT START THIS. pPease sharks are so valuable. Cindi

After closing great sections of the reef for sustainability, the Queensland government proposes indiscriminant harvesting of sharks for profit. How hypocritical, can you get? Dave Burke

Shark fishing is outrageous. Every year we destroy our most precious species and we still do not understand the importance of sharks for our ecosystem. BAN ALL SHARK FISHING!!!!!!

One of the main reasons I would visit Australia would be to see the amazing ecosystem- please protect these nature treasures so that future generations can enjoy them like I hope to in the coming year.

PLEASE help to stop this MADNESS!!!!

A Marine reserve should be just that. With all the publicity regarding shark conservation recently - how can this be justified?

How could Australia- long a leader in pro-active marine conservation initiatives- in good conscious be considering authorizing wholesale and senseless slaughter? Your country's image will suffer for this. Please do not move forward with this. Sincerely, Brandon Cole

Directed shark fisheries must be discouraged, and fishing effort upon them must be reduced, including in fisheries in which they are bycatch. This proposal to allow shark fishing in the Great Barrier Reef lacks any technical justification whatsoever, and could tarnish Australia's lead role as a global marine conservation country if allowed.

Do you expect the world to stand for this outrage? Do you intend to destroy everything good about the world we live in? NOT IN MY NAME! Shame on you!!

If this happens we can say goodbye to being PROUD Queenslanders. I'm disgusted, embarrassed and our state is disgraced at the very thought of this.

We have been to Australia twice to dive and are planning another trip. From Seattle Australia is about as distant a point as possible for us to travel to. We love the GBR and a big part of the draw is the chance to dive with sharks. Please make every effort to protect these incredible creatures so many are willing to travel so far to see.

We have been to Australia twice to dive and are planning another trip. From Seattle Australia is about as distant a point as possible for us to travel to. We love the GBR and a big part of the draw is the chance to dive with sharks. Please make every effort to protect these incredible creatures so many are willing to travel so far to see.

In addition to the petition above I request the Australian Parliament to pledge to:

1. Agree to completely phase out killing of sharks and whales by 2009.
2. Immediately set a very tight quota on all endangered and threatened shark and whale species that frequent Australian waters."
3. Ensure Australia's representative at UNFCCC Convention in Bonn, 2-13 June and the IPPC moves to form a Subsidiary Body to establish jurisdiction and penalties for all illegal fishing activities in International waters.
4. Develop International Resolutions banning long lines and enforcement of penalties for shark finning boats and crew and any of their partners in the chain of produce to sale.
5. Create rules that prevent collateral benefit from the illegal trade of shark fins and whaling.
6. Stop any person or company from taking of the world's natural resources, the assets of International Carbon Credit Schemes. Sharks ensure the ocean's oxygen balance. Ultimately, if Carbon Trading is to be a reality, every naturally occurring carbon reduction has value and in Australia this is the surplus and carbon trading currency of the Government. Allow Australians to enact their personal Sovereignty as representatives of the Australias natural assets, where the Government fails to act to protect them. To change the human activities that cause climate change, we have to see things this way and take immediate inventory of our natural assets, allowing citizen protection.
7. Make arrangements for the Great Barrier Reef to be a shark protection zone.
8. Resolve that no State or Territory has the power to sell out from under us the nation's reserve of carbon credits, where there is any inconsistency Federal Government prevails.
9. Acknowledge the Federal Government's International obligations to the Kyoto Protocol and recognises the International Carbon Trading Scheme , gives nil credit to activities that reduce biodiversity.
10. Invoke the 'Precautionary Principle' in decision making of the Queensland Premier and Ministers.
11. Enhance the Queensland Government's environmental credibility with genuine steps toward an environmentally sustainable future.

At the least establish viable TACs and a determination of EFH before any fishery is established. A Marine Park like the GBR is supposed to be a sanctuary. I worked on Lizard Island and I am sickened by the possibility that it could be opened to any form of commercial fishery. I have seen, first hand, what poachers can do so what will legal fisheries effect in terms of population.

I vote labor don’t let me down.

I can't understand why a first world country is thinking like a third world country when it comes to marine resources.

I find it quite ridiculous that Australia even thought this was a good idea on any level.

Please show compassion and respect for all wildlife species, they have every right to live on this planet and they are not here to be decimated by us. They all play a crucial part in our ecosystem and without them we are destroying our environment and ourselves.

Killing Sharks is insanity--bipeds are the only animal which are killing the planet. As a diver, U/W photographer, and a friend of sharks remember tourist monies are at stake.

As a shark conservationist myself I am appalled by this act by the Australian Government. Australia has always placed itself at the pinnacle of the marine conservation movement and has made numerous proposals at international levels (CITES, FAO and RFMO'S) calling for greater shark conservation legislation and cooperation. This new legislation runs directly against the vein of all of the previous good work of the Australian government. I hope that this petition alongside others will reach somebody of influence. Sincerely, Mark Stevenson

Thank you for listening!

Impossible to comprehend the minds behind these absurd considerations for yet more barbaric blood letting? Sustainability I think not.

I can not believe this still exists and is allowed to happen. Why does no nation stand up to China and say no to Shark Fin soup (and other endangered animal products). When there are no sharks left they will not be able to eat it so why not stop now.

Short term approaches to wealth enhancement will cost in the long term: millions of people depend upon the oceans for food - sharks play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Our world's natural resources are in serious decline but world populations continue to grow - Governments that remain shortsighted do not act in the interest of their people. It is deplorable that new shark fisheries should be allowed when clearly shark populations worldwide are declining at unsustainable rates. This must not be allowed.

I am now 57 years of age and I love diving on the reefs of the Great Barrier Reef. It would be a tragedy if you permit this barbaric wasteful shark fin fishing to take place anywhere in Australian waters but especially in the Great Barrier Reef region.

What is going on! In a time where proof of a rising climate and obvious destruction of marine life is a major talking point would the Queensland and Australian government want to do something like this. The GBR is something to be treasured and preserved, not to be raped of what makes it beautiful and intriguing. As an Aussie I am disgusted and outraged that our government would even consider this. We have hit a new low.

I am the Staff Photographer at Shark Diver Magazine. I have dived in many stunning areas along the east coast of Australia and I am appalled to hear about this proposal. It will impact not only the shark populations but the entire ecosystem in general. I do not want to have to write about Queensland's short sightedness or discourage divers from visiting but that will inevitably happen if the shark fishery goes ahead.

This is a ridiculous idea by clueless politicians who are after the big bucks this industry will provide, rather than protecting a species under threat of extinction

Do not allow these magnificent creatures to be attacked in this way. The Great Barrier reef and its wildlife are treasures and should not be exploited in this manner

Un-bloody-believable—I thought I read papers, but I missed this one!

Please stop this immediately!

Please stop this!

Sharks are over 450 million years old! Is a bowl of shark fin soup and commercial fishing really worth destroying these beautiful animals and upsetting the oceans ecosystems? I really hope the government realises their terrible mistake and stops this right now.

To whom this may concern, Sharks are becoming one of the fastest endangered marine life on our planet due to FINNING, what a complete waste of life, please do not let this slaughter prevail

Absolutely disgraceful. This shakes my entire faith in the Australian Government and their model environmental track record. I for one will make it a point to cease and boycott all proposed journalism and video assignments I receive to this great nation if such a bill becomes law. The architect of such mindless greed should be jailed.

Disgusted

Where are your brains? I can’t wait to see 'politician thumb soup' become trendy in Japanese restaurants.

Sharks are top predators, and play a key ecological role. The impact of shark fishing is much greater than killing sharks, but cascades through the food chain and the marine environment.

Australia is home to a vast array of unique marine ecosystems. As a nation we should be leading the way in terms of the sustainable management of these areas not taking backward steps such as those proposed. I urge the government to ban all shark fishing in the Great Barrier Reef so that future generations can enjoy the magnificent marine life that exists in the region.

This is absolutely outrageous! The needless slaughter of sharks for their fins is nothing short of disgraceful and should be stopped.

It is outrageous, unethical and downright disgusting that the Queensland Government can even consider undertaking any kind of shark fishery at this critical time for shark populations. They are already being depleted by millions per year - how can you possibly justify this? Especially fishing for a number of species that are already listed as threatened or endangered. It is simply ridiculous.

I'm disgusted that Australia could take such a step backwards.

The future of our oceans, and indeed all life lies in your hands. Do what's right. Stop this legislation.

How can we possibly even think of doing such a thing. What part of "insanity" don’t the politicians understand.

Please stop the shark fishing in the Great Barrier Reef right away. Sharks are a vital part of the underwater world and have been for countless years. They are also beautiful and misunderstood and need to be saved before it is too late. Again, please take the measures that are needed to stop the fishing of sharks and the killing of sharks. Please help them! Thank you.

I am becoming increasingly disillusioned with people in positions of power who make decisions which I find abhorrent. The creation of a shark factory in Australia is a shocking example and I call for Australia to ban shark fishing throughout the entire Great Barrier Reef area immediately. Astrid.

I hope the enormous support for this petition will make DPI&F see sense.

Please do your part as an influential party to stop the senseless, and needless extermination of sharks. Thank you.

There are too many humans in the world and most of them loves to kills or eat (=same way as kill) all kinds of animals! Shame on you!!! The only way to help animals = the vegan lifestyle!

I think you should all watch 'sharkwater'.. and maybe some BBC blue planet docos... its an amazing world out there - stop fishing it all out!

This disgraceful practice needs to be banned, it is barbaric and cruel and completely unnecessary.

Saw Sharkwater today which was a complete eye opener to me. I urge politicians to help provide legislative assistance to these magnificent creatures. Finning should be banned - it is an unbelievably cruel, greedy and shortsighted industry.

It's about time the government started putting the ecology as a priority. This means considering the impact of economic interests consistently overriding ecological care. We have one planet and we do not have the right to destroy habitats and other animal species.

Since when does our government condone to slaughter of endangered species? It makes me ashamed to live in this state.

What a disgrace. Won’t you be happy until all sharks and whales have gone; what are you going to do then, hang your head in shame? You’re a disgrace.

Completely unbelievable- when will people show some respect to nature. People have to learn that ecosystems are delicately balanced and humans certainly aren't qualified to alter them.

You are our appointed custodians of our biodiversity - please properly discharge that responsibility and stewardship.

Australia needs to take the lead with this matter and not just be another export-drive Banana Rupublic

Sharks are pivotal in the ecology of the ocean. Reduce their numbers and you will upset the food chain. The resulting imbalance will jeopardize the sustainability of many other species. Do the research and acknowledge that already the shark population has been reduced way lower than the natural balance requires. That is for the overall shark species: the endangered individual species warrant absolute protection with very high penalties for poaching, even just one!

It seems everyone is more interested in money and power than preserving life.

Why is it that the Human Race thinks that they are entitled to eliminate any Animals or Creatures that may pose a threat to them even though we are encroaching on their natural environment?

Shame on you!

I write for a number of reasons. Previously in the tourism industry, I am saddened by any over fishing, or unnecessary fishing in our waters. Shark fishing is a tremendous burden on the ecosystem, cruel and certainly by having this industry strengthened, okays it for those who participate in shark fin fisheries - a particularly cruel and destructive act. Even Disneyland in China recently stopped serving shark fin after huge outcry. It is cruel, it is unnecessary and it is a ban we should enforce, not endorse. It also weakens our case for stopping whale hunting in our waters, when you have endorsed a similar yet just as cruel hunt.

To see such a proposal now in Australia is nothing short of staggering. Have you not read any news for the last 5 years? Have you not received any professional scientific advice about the proposal? Had you either, you would be aware that despoliation of Australia's precious resources for the sake of a quick (and very short term) dollar is quite appalling. The evidence is there, and mounting. The number of species endangered rises, as does the number of reefs with collapsing systems because their sharks are being taken. I urge you first to call a halt to the proposal. Study the evidence. Then decide whether this is a sensible thing to do. I am confident you will have only one conclusion: do not allow this "fishery" to happen.

A shark fishery like this is completely unsustainable and a dreadful idea.

We must stop the senseless destruction of sharks. Removal of top predator has huge knock on effects, including an impact on global warming! Please think about more than just dollars!

Sharks are unique and beautiful creatures, my they survive for future generations to experience and respect.

I am an avid Diver & have been to Australia on a number of occasions as do many divers who generate a lot of income to Australia’s tourism trade who go to see the magnificent sea life there & the sharks you are lucky to have to start with. What you are about to do is insane. It would be a good idea for the diving community to get together to boycott Australia for their diving holidays & see just much money sharks ALIVE generate for Australia against the money generated for the pointless bloody slaughter of these awesome creatures & mainly for what 'a bowl of goo’ thats tasteless. As a country & the people who support this action you should be ashamed of your self for even contemplating this shark industry. Especially now when most sharks are on the verge of extinction anyhow. DONT DO IT. I will talk to other divers & also contact the shark trust to rally the diving community to take Australia off there diving destination holidays. Perhaps we can kick you in your pocket were it hurts as that’s what you obviously think is more precious than saving an already dieing species. Australia won’t be having my money in the future. Hopefully more will follow.

We have to take leadership in these issues. Not set the benchmark for fiscal opportunism in the Western World. How can the federal govt. of Australia take such a strong stand on one marine species (whaling) and be seen to do nothing to manage and preserve a species equally as significant to the health of Marine ecosystems

I am utterly astonished and horrified by the Queensland Governments proposal to hand out licenses for shark fin fishing. The Government must revoke this proposal and commit to a program with fishers to save sharks, not hunt them.

How many times do we have to do this before people wake up and realise that this is not the way forward.

I urge you to please reconsider and help eradicate such senseless harm to these majestic animals.

I hold my head in shame to be an Australian when I hear about mindless, cruel and barbaric acts as the proposed shark fishing in the Great Barrier reef and disgust to all the other shark fishermen

Although sharks have gained a bad reputation throughout the world, people kill many more of these valuable predators than vice-versa. Please cancel plans to start a shark finning industry in the Great Barrier Reef.

Save the sharks! Come on now, I'm counting on you Australia! When most other countries have sold out to big business, you guys have held your ground for the ocean. Keep holding it please!

You are lucky enough to have the Great Barrier Reef - you must protect it and its inhabitants including sharks - or I'll arrange a quiet chat with you!! David

I am appalled!

Stop shark fishing. Without sharks some other fish specifics will reproduce too much and will overpopulate some parts of the ocean!

"Our task must be to free ourselves.... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures, the whole of nature and its beauty"- Albert Einstein -

I find the consideration of this heinous fishery shocking. Is this the image Australia wants to convey to the world? Sharks are at the brink of extinction and the Barrier Reef needs to be protected.

Sharks will not survive this attempt to make an industry out of them. If this goes ahead it will mean their extermination. All living creatures other than humans ought to have a future.

Please understand that the time has come to add sharks to the endangered species list and protect them, not encourage their extinction.

The Great Barrier Reef is in fact that! And will be sad to see that the Australian government lets such a valuable and irreplaceable reef be ruined would be such a waste.

Developing Third world countries plead that they have to resort to these means of making money to survive. What is our excuse? We are no different. Makes me sick to think I am part of a country who's government has sold out!

Our planet, the whole nature, all animals and especially sharks need protection and our help.

Shark finning is the most appalling thing I have ever seen in my life. Please stop this unspeakable cruelty. It is in your power to do so. Also, why do we allow Indonesian fisherman to carry out this heinous practice in Australian waters?

I am disgusted that in this supposedly awakened awareness of environmental care and humanities responsibility that Shark Fin fishing could ever have been discussed let alone planned to be undertaken. Anyone involved in this or allowing this is a shame to themselves and failing the environment.

What a pity that so many politicians have so much destructive power and so little conscience about the future of this planet and all its inhabitants.

Stop the slaughter of sharks in our pristine Australian waters before more damage is done to our beautiful world in which we live.

Please protect sharks - they are so important to the oceans' health, and the cruel and wasteful practice of finning is beyond barbaric.

It is absolutely imperative that shark fining be removed from consideration in light of the dreadful practice and overkill that is happening. Australia should not endanger your reputation as an ecologically sensitive nation. Thank You!

Please stop this corrupt, indiscriminate killing of wildlife!

This is appalling and crass commercialisms at the expense of precious marine animals lives. Save the Sharks! Extinction is forever!

Are we going to ignore the evidence that too many of the worlds sharks are endangered and cannot be sustainably fished here or anywhere else. Make a stand Australia. Support the sea that supports you.

My 2 sons live in Queensland and they are outraged as well. Thomas A. Edison admonished us saying, "Until we stop harming all living things we are still savages."

I agree with all that is said here and simple would like to help with the points made by saying I to think it should be stopped I mean what’s the point in making cash once there’s no more sharks to do kill for it, think first fish later.

Yes, Ban All Shark fishing, it's amazing that we portray Sharks to be violent animals, when we're the ones that are driving them towards extinction!

I am strongly opposed to any unsustainable commercial shark fishing in Australia, in particular the export or use of shark fin.

What are you thinking!!!

This slaughter is horrible, so that the Japanese can eat fin soup! You should be ashamed for killing the top predators of the oceans.

Please stop this insanity!! If not for the sake of the innocent sharks, for the sake of our world and the ecosystem it depends on!

Australia Save sharks!!!!

I have read 8 books on Australia and am planning to fulfill a long-standing ambition to do a walkabout of about 3 months; however, your sanctioning of what amounts to a slaughter may make me change my mind about visiting a country with such little regard for wildlife.

It is unconscionable that Australia, a nation widely recognized for its marine conservation measures, is now considering sanctioning a shark fishery. Fishing for already threatened species is clearly unsustainable. Please send a positive environmental message to the rest of the world, and instead of creating a targeted shark fishery, work to enact and enforce more protection for sharks and other marine life.

The Australian people's support of Sea Shepherd and the whales are to be commended. I am sure people will be furious over Queensland's proposal to slaughter what is left of the ocean's sharks. Who thought this one up, anyway!!!!!

Keep up the good work. You got it dead right, they need saving from us. SAVE THE SHARK!

44. Jill Tew, Melrose, Florida, USA

Why does our species feel the need to annihilate EVERY other species on this planet? Take a break.

43. Johanna von Segnitz, Wrzburg, Germany
42. Sondra Noonan, Hilton, Western Australia, Australia
41. Michael Vogrinec, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
40. Kylie Vogrinec, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Are you really considering this??? Crazy

Stop the Sharkfinning and protect the Shark

This is so cruel. Please stop it!

Come on you guys, let’s save the sharks.

The ocean is their territory and not man’s. Stop the slaughter of sharks now!

This is not what I expected from an alp government, its backward, short sighted and wrong.

PLEASE ban shark fishing and set an example for the rest of the planet! God Bless.

Australia! I have been saving for a trip to your country. I did not expect to be signing a petition to help protect the sharks and the ecosystem of the Barrier Reefs.

I am ashamed of the Queensland politicians.

I just lost all respect for Australia. **DO NOT TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA UNTIL THIS MATTER IS REVERSED**

This is just crazy. Sharks are being killed off by the millions already, and shark-finning is for the greedy and heartless people I'm ashamed are of my species.

Sharks are an absolutely essential part of the marine ecosystem and are being wiped out by a variety of sources. PLEASE do all you can to stop killing sharks.

18. Marcus Lyng, St.Charles, IL, USA

It is sad enough that Australia takes no effective action to stop the illegal whaling that occurs every year in their waters by the Japanese but to allow shark fishing on the Great Barrier Reef shows that the Rudd Government is only interested in bedding over backward for the Japanese. I vigilantly oppose Asian markets and products as well as travel to those countries it looks like now I will have to included Australian Products and travel as well now seeing that it is obvious you don’t care about your marine environment.

17. John Luedeman, Seneca, SC, USA
16. Not publicly disclosed, Toronto, ON, Canada
15. Beth Sopko, New York, NY, USA

Half the species of sharks in the world are threatened or endangered, and Australia wants to set up a shark-fishing outpost in a wildlife preserve? This is true insanity. I sincerely hope this plan doesn't go through; future generations are going to look at our generation as the one who has caused irreparable environmental damage and worse, never tried to stop damage that was already underway.

14. Jeff Trussell, Bethesda, MD, USA
13. Christine Gstoettner, Vienna, Austria
12. DJ Schubert, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, USA
11. Helena Stephenson, London, UK

Sharks are a beautiful and essential part of our ecosystem - we eradicate them at our massive detriment. Ask any diver - seeing a shark is always a massive highlight. 10. Wendy Heller, New York, NY, USA

There is overwhelming scientific evidence that shows that directed shark fisheries are unsustainable over time. In fact, I am not aware of any directed shark fishery that has not collapsed eventually. Please do not permit a directed shark fishery on the Great Barrier Reef as this will have severe negative impacts for this World Heritage Area.
Alison Kock - Marine Biologist

7. Hope Nguyen, Strathfield, NSW, Australia

It would be a great tragedy if finning were allowed off Australian waters. Please ensure that this does not occur.

6. Not publicly disclosed, Bristol, England
5. Max Webb, Auckland, NZ

Possibly the most stupid and ignorant proposal from the Australian Gov’t. in a long time. And that's saying something.

4. Julien Stein, Paris, Ile de France, France
3. Gabor Katzirz, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
2. Janet Murphy, Bronx, NY, USA

Come on Ministers! Open your eyes to the true value of a live shark, both economically and environmentally. With so many shark populations in drastic decline, how can anyone condone the fishing and exploitation of any sharks, in any numbers? Do not be short-sighted. Do the right thing. The world is watching.

1. Michael Skoletsky, New York, NY, USA

I strongly oppose shark fishing in the Great Barrier Reef. They don't call it 'great' for nothing, and it must be preserved. Sharks are a vital ingredient to that preservation.