Western Australia - Case in Point!

The 14 week trial attracted intense media and community interest. 
The trial generated: 

• 765 separate articles on sharks in local, state and national newspapers 
• 1,100 radio news bulletins on sharks (Western Australia) 
• 850 radio talk back comments on sharks (Western Australia) 
• 290 television news items on sharks (Western Australia) 
• 286,000 emails and letters to the Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) - a significant number of which were pro forma emails
• and a significant number of postings on Twitter and Facebook, some of which were offensive and contained personal attacks on members of the Government and staff involved with the program.

Talk about full transparency!

And the net result of that onslaught of unsolicited appeals, petitions (= pro forma emails), opinions and abuse?

A big fat zero.

Not only are they completely disregarding them, they are proposing to extend the cull for another three years and have gone on the offensive by claiming that a silent majority is in favor but had “no choice but to stay quiet due to the level of abuse and vilification received”, describing the level of personal attack and social media postings as “unacceptable”.
So, can we please stop this insanity?

Now, we shall see.

Both the postulated silent majority and the anti-cull faction have an equal opportunity to have their voices heard - and I sure hope that the latter is not only composed of social media slacktivists and agitators but that instead, it will make a vigorous attempt at turning things around by fielding rational arguments.
Not really convinced that the WA government will listen - but along with the federal assessment, it's the best opportunity we got.

Recommendations here.

Please make your submission - the clock is ticking!

Fingers crossed!