BREAKING Heard & McDonald marine park is here! How does it stack up?

We have important news!

After months of consultation and tens of thousands of letters calling for increased protection, the Australian Government has revealed its plan for the Heard and McDonald Islands Marine Park!

So how does it stack up?

Well, it’s good, but not great.

The good part – the marine park will ensure the bulk of the waters around these islands will be free from mining and new, damaging pelagic fisheries.

Also, thanks to our efforts, the park will now include increased protection for part of the Gunnari Ridge – an important foraging ground for penguins, albatrosses and seals.

Make no mistake, this area was afforded protection because we spoke up! On behalf of our Sub-Antarctic marine life, thank you!

But what’s not great about this park?

The government has decided to leave important undersea canyons, highly biodiverse seamounts and the Williams Ridge outside of sanctuaries.

Our community, alongside leading scientists, called for increased sanctuary protection around these critical seafloor habitats and foraging areas.

To leave them out is very disappointing, and a missed opportunity.

Especially, considering that last year, the Albanese Government listened to scientists and people like you and significantly expanded sanctuaries around Macquarie Island, Australia’s other Sub-Antarctic territory.

Disappointment aside, this is a significant moment for our Sub-Antarctic marine life. The expanded marine park and sanctuaries will help protect and preserve this unique and special part of the world.

Today’s announcement would have looked completely different without your support!

This isn’t the end. Soon we’ll have the opportunity to have our say on the marine park’s management plan. From ocean surveillance to scientific research, a strong management plan will make a huge difference, so stay tuned!

Thank you once again.

Best fishes,

Fiona Maxwell.