International trade in dugongs is banned by its listing on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (1). They are also found within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is currently working with other agencies in an effort to halt the decline in this species (3). A system of 16 Dugong Protection Areas, where there are key populations, has been established and there is ongoing research into the distribution and behaviour of this gentle mermaid of the sea (3).