Sharks are Cool!

Why? Because:

• Sharks were around long before dinosaurs walked the earth 400 million years ago
• They have hardly changed in over 150 million years
• There are over 400 different types of sharks in the world’s oceans
• 80% of all shark species are less than 1 metre in length
• Shark skeletons are made out of cartilage instead of bone
• Most sharks live an average of 25 years, but some can live more than 100 years

Sharks Need Our Help!

Why? Because:

• Shark numbers around the world are in decline
• An estimated 100 – 200 million sharks a year are being killed
• Some scientists estimate that shark populations have declined by 80 – 90% over the past decade
• It is highly probable that many species of shark may be commercially extinct in the next 20 years

Whitetip Reef Shark	Bluespotted Ray	Manta-Ray Bora

Passions’ Save a Shark Program

In February 2007, we decided to do something about the shark problem. We joined forces with the Oceania Chondricththyan Society (OCS) and entered into a three-year sponsorship arrangement to promote research into shark conservation.

Sharks have always been a 'cool' subject on our boat – we have several small reef sharks common to our area. For a number of years we have been running an on-board shark awareness program whereby our passengers learn about sharks and rays, the issues facing them and their conservation.

Now, through our new sponsorship arrangement, we can take a more active role in shark conservation. We raise monies to donate to the OCS from sale proceeds from selected merchandise. Our donations have a specific destination - every dollar goes directly to fund student research through grants and awards.

At the Inaugural OCS Scientific Conference in Queenscliff, near Melbourne (October 2007), Passions of Paradise's donated $3,800, which was distributed amongst eight student grants and awards.

Interested in Sharks? Feel free to contact our Environmental Manager for more information

Download 2007 Award Winners.pdf [1002KB]