Fisheries and Gudjuda Rangers clearing old crab pots from Nth Queensland waterways

 

Gudjuda Indigenous Rangers
Photo Department of Agriculture and Fisheries 

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers have joined forces with the Gudjuda Indigenous Rangers from Home Hill to haul in a significant number of illegal crab pots from Townsville and Burdekin waterways in their latest clean-up operation.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the clean-up was conducted over five days and focused on Plantation Creek, Ocean Creek, Haughton River, Barramundi Creek and Cleveland Bay.

“The crews removed 119 abandoned and derelict pots from the marine habitat,” Mr Stewart said.

“It was also a great relationship-building exercise for the two agencies. The Gudjuda Rangers are passionate about cleaning up their Sea country.”

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said crabbing was one of Queensland’s most popular forms of fishing and the problem of unmarked, abandoned and lost crab pots is a statewide issue.

“Fishers must clearly mark their crab pots with the user’s surname and address and remove their gear from the water after fishing,” Mr Furner said.

Crab Pot Removal Boat and Ranger
Photo Department of Agriculture and Fisheries 

“Crab pots left in the water can become lost and continue to ‘ghost fish’, catching crabs, fish and other non-target marine animals including turtles which become trapped and die.

“QBFP conducts crab pot clean ups across the state regularly, in conjunction with other compliance agencies and marine conservation groups where possible.”

If you see suspected unmarked, lost or abandoned crabbing apparatus, record the location (GPS coordinates) and report it to QBFP.

For more information on Queensland fishing rules and regulations, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au 

Source:  State of Queensland and Fisheries QLD