We once had a clear sense of balance: conserve where possible, control where necessary. But in a world where fundamental human rights are now being extended to animals believed to have advanced cognition - India declared dolphins to be "non-human persons" in 2013 while Argentina has granted an orang-utan "non-human person" status - common sense no longer applies.
The NSW government has announced it will pause plans for a trial removal of shark nets at three beaches following Mercury Psillakis's death. The nets are justly criticised for providing a false sense of security for beachgoers while killing scores of dolphins, whales and other marine life. Modern technology offers better solutions, including sophisticated tag and release drum lines and ever-improving drone surveillance.