The Australian Marine Conservation Society has warmly welcomed the Government's decision to extend the Vessel Tracking System throughout the Great Barrier Reef in response to the shocking grounding of a 100,000 tonnes coal ship on the reef over Easter. This is an important step in ensuring the reef is better protected from shipping.

Since the grounding, over two thousand AMCS supporters have written to the Transport Minister calling for the introduction of this measure. The Government's decision represents a victory for common sense, a victory for the many people who care passionately about the reef's future and, most importantly, a victory for the protection of the precious and fragile World Heritage Great Barrier Reef.

This is an important step but won't, on its own, ensure the reef is fully safe-guarded. The extension of the Vessel Tracking System must be complimented by the introduction of compulsory vessel pilotage throughout the reef and an overall review of how the growth in shipping is being managed in one of the natural wonders of the world.

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