The rapidly increasing tide of concern for preservation of sharks in Australia has led to the establishment of two new organisations: Whitetag, a collective describing itself as “a conduit for scientifically supported research,” and its sister-entity, the not-for-profit Tag For Life trust. Both were founded by Victorian conservationist and surfer Kent Stannard, out of his concern at the parlous state of funding for shark conservation research.

Through the Tag for Life program, Whitetag operates as a delivery mechanism for white shark research both here and overseas. By sharing data that’s objective and scientifically sound, Whitetag aims to correct some of the misconceptions about white sharks that have built up among ocean users, and to educate the public about the need for conservation.

Whitetag will shortly start selling merchandise online and through selected stockists, including tees, caps, polos and jackets, with follow up items to come. Stannard says this is a necessary fundraising drive, due to fairly lacklustre response from the surf industry. “I learnt about Patagonia’s 1% for the Planet Foundation, and decided I would create something similar, generating my own product that could eventually contribute back to the Tag For Life Trust. It seemed a logical fit.”

Proceeds from the sale of each Whitetag product will contribute to the work of the Tag for Life program. Tag For Life has gained momentum with the addition of filmmaker Mick Sowry and surfing icons Tom Carroll, Mark Richards and Wayne Lynch as program supporters. Other high profile names behind the cause include actor Jack Thompson, writer Tim Winton and media personality Suzie Wilks. Melbourne Zoo has already incorporated Tag for Life into their schools program, whilst Melbourne Museum has given Whitetag its in-principle support for a display related to tagging research. Other participants include the Melbourne and Sydney aquariums, The Philip Island Nature Park, Surf Life Saving Australia and National Geographic.

Tag for Life is overseen by a panel of individuals from both the corporate and private sectors whilst a scientific steering committee assists the panel where needed. The panel administers the funding to the selected projects, which include listening stations and tagging programs. Such programs provide a basis for models of white shark distribution, and help to establish population size and structure and risk to the general public. They also provide accurate information on white shark biology, status and their place in the ecosystem.

www.whitetag.com.au