Playing with Sharks

In 1970, a young teenager first encounters Valerie Taylor, her late husband Ron, and Rodney Fox while watching the groundbreaking documentary *Blue Water, White Death*. The stunning visuals of the underwater world captivate the viewer, igniting a passion for sharks that would last a lifetime.

The documentary *Playing With Sharks* highlights Valerie's teenage years, showcasing her skills as a spearfishing champion. It also delves into her deep connection with the ocean and her loving relationship with Ron, who not only recognized her talents but also became her devoted husband.

Valerie and Ron embark on a transformative expedition that changes the course of their lives. As they transition from being spearfishing champions, they start to gain global recognition for their work in underwater filmmaking and documentaries, altering how sharks are perceived.

The Taylors travel around the world, capturing the beauty and majesty of sharks through their lens. They work tirelessly to educate the public about the misconceptions surrounding sharks, particularly in the wake of the movie *Jaws*, which painted them as mindless killers.

As their fame grows, Valerie and Ron emerge as passionate advocates for ocean conservation. They dedicate their lives to protecting marine life and raising awareness about the critical importance of preserving the ocean's ecosystems.

Australia becomes the first nation to enact protection measures for the Grey Nurse Shark, thanks to the Taylors' relentless advocacy. This pivotal conservation initiative marks a significant step towards marine protection in the region.

Following the protection of the Grey Nurse Shark, the Taylors achieve further conservation successes. They help secure protections for other species and habitats, including the Potato Cod, Sea Lions, and the breeding grounds of the Southern Right Whales.

The couple also works to protect the Coral Sea bird breeding islands, recognizing their crucial role in the marine ecosystem. Their advocacy highlights the importance of preserving diverse habitats for the overall health of the ocean.

A significant achievement of the Taylors' efforts is the designation of key areas as marine reserves. These reserves help safeguard the Great White Shark and ensure that their breeding grounds and habitats are protected for future generations.

Even at the age of 85, Valerie remains dedicated to ocean conservation. She continues her work passionately, keeping her husband's legacy alive and actively engaging with marine life through diving and protection efforts.

After the passing of her beloved husband Ron in 2012, Valerie reflects on their shared journey and accomplishments. His influence remains a guiding force as she continues to advocate for the causes they both cherished.

The documentary *Playing With Sharks* serves as an homage to both Valerie's journey and her lifelong commitment to marine conservation. Through her stories and experiences, viewers come to understand the beauty and complexity of sharks.