Protection dispute: Mr Macdonald says the Government is doing what it can to save the sharks. [File photo]
Last Update: Thursday, October 5, 2006. 5:28pm (AEST)

Govt defends measures to protect grey nurse sharks

The New South Wales Government has defended its protection of grey nurse sharks and described a potential legal challenge against it as a "waste of money".

But animal conservation groups say not enough is being done and the species could be extinct in a decade.

A meeting of environmental groups and divers say with 500 grey nurse sharks left on the east coast, more protection is needed to save the critically endangered species.

Diver Peter Hitchens from South West Rocks says he sees sharks with fishing hooks attached every day.

"I have seen autopsy results with hooks inside the stomach, which causes septicemia the sharks die as a result."

Today conservation groups agreed legal action might force the NSW Government to put in no go zones at 16 critical habitat sites.

Natural Resources Minister Ian Macdonald disagrees.

"I think they should save their money and work with the Government".

The NSW Government is considering protection at Port Stephens and Bateman's Bay, but it is yet to make a decision.