A paddle-out will take place in Byron Bay tomorrow to protest against the opening up of marine sanctuaries to fishing.
Organised by the Conservation Council of New South Wales in conjunction with local ocean advocates.
Organisers are inviting people to paddle their boards, skis, kayaks, or anything that floats into the Cape Byron Marine Park with a message that they want local sanctuary zones restored.
Anyone wanting to take part should gather at Byron Main Beach in front of the surf club at 7.30am for an 8am start.
The event is in response to the NSW Government’s plans to permanently open up two sanctuary areas in the Cape Byron Mare Park to fishing.
Public submissions into the proposal are open until 13 November.
Under the government’s proposal, both Tyagarah Beach and East Cape Byron, would have their sanctuary protections removed.
NCC’s Marine Campaigner Justin Field said marine sanctuaries were essential for protecting marine life and ensuring a healthy lifestyle for the future.”
‘Less than 7 per cent of the NSW coast is protected in marine sanctuaries,’ he said.
‘This event is an opportunity for north coast ocean lovers and everyone with an interest in healthy oceans to show the government they want local marine sanctuary protections restored.’
Anyone wanting to make a submission should go to http://www.marine.nsw.gov.au/key-initiatives/ocean-beaches-and-headlands-assessment
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
