WWF today welcomed Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett’s announcement that recognises the high conservation value of the Coral Sea and the East Marine Region.
"We see it as a big step towards the declaration of a high level of protection for the Coral Sea," said WWF spokesman Richard Leck.
"Every year Australians enjoy the sight of magnificent humpback whales on their annual migration routes, travelling up the east coast of Australia. Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to providing a safety net of marine sanctuaries for these creatures and many other species that make up our extraordinary marine wildlife."
As well as iconic creatures such as whales, turtles and sharks, the Coral Sea and East Marine Region include a range of unique and important habitats which are home to many species found nowhere else on the planet.
The Australian Government has committed to building a network of marine parks in Australian waters by 2012. WWF-Australia sees the protection of places like the Coral Sea and the East Marine Region as critical components of this network.
"The Coral Sea is a magnificent marine wilderness," said Mr Leck.
"WWF-Australia looks forward to working on the next step of the process to ensure it, and the East Marine egion, receive the protection they deserve."
More information
Alvin Stone, Communications Officer, WWF-Australia. Ph: (02) 8202 1259. Mbl: 0410 221 068