Upper House Greens MP Ian Cohen swims regularly at The Pass at Byron Bay where Linda Whitehurst was attacked yesterday by a 2.5m Great White Shark.
"I swam in the same area just the day before. I also swim over the reef in question. It is a near shore reef and with easy access," said Mr Cohen from Sydney.
"It is terrible that an ocean user was attacked. It appears she acted in a brave and responsible manner and I'm relieved to hear that the injuries were relatively minor.
"Sharks are part of the ecosystem and at this time of the year the Great Whites follow the migrating whales to attack the young. Whales are currently present in huge numbers.
"Great Whites are in danger of extinction and deserve to be afforded protection. I always think of and fear sharks when I enter the water but it is their ecosystem and we as swimmers are entering their environment.
"It is our choice and we enter at our own risk. We cannot have an ocean environment full of friendly whales and dolphins and somehow excise the predators.
"Sharks are in far greater danger from humans than the reverse.
"I hope this event does not excite some in the community to react toward an endangered species. Driving a car is still far more dangerous.
"We are after all dealing with a wilderness and wild animals are part of that experience," concluded Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Ian Cohen: 0409 989 466
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