The creation the Buccaneer Archipelago Marine Park is a positive step forward in providing marine protection in this area of the Kimberley. However, there are a number of activities that are being allowed in the Marine Park that are not compatible with ensuring protection of the coral reefs and marine life. Petroleum exploration and development under the current proposed zoning will be allowed in 60% of the Marine Park. The risks of oil spills and increased vessel activity will pose a great risk to the area. Commercial fishing is to be allowed in 60% of the Marine Park and this will continue to place pressure on the fish stocks in the Archipelago. Any expansion of destructive mineral extraction through the islands of the Archipelago is not compatible with providing protection in the park,

Traditional hunting for dugong and turtles in the sanctuary zones should be questioned. Most of these hunting activities are carried out in dinghies with high powered outboard motors which in no way emulate traditional fishing techniques.

Thank you for carefully and collaboratively proposing the creation of the Buccaneer Archipelago Marine Park. It is so very important environmentally, culturally and will give meaningful jobs to communities that really need them.