REC fishers in WA’s south-west now have two new locations to cast their lines, with Fisheries Minister Troy Buswell last week officially opening $2.38million artificial reefs in Quindalup.
Mr Buswell said the State’s first trial artificial reefs, located off Dunsborough and Bunbury, would enhance recreational fishing in the area.
“This trial is aimed at providing quality fishing experiences and increasing fish stocks, to assist in the sustainable management of Western Australia’s fish resource,” he said.
“These reefs are already attracting fish and are expected to increase the populations of numerous species, including Skippy, Yellowtail, Samson fish and Pink Snapper.
“The internationally proven design, from Australian company Haejoo, and the work generated for local contractors has made this an exciting and valuable South-West project.”
The $2.38million project, includes construction and deployment of 60 concrete modules and ongoing scientific evaluation for the reefs, received $1.86million through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program and the balance of funding from recreational fishing licence fees.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the project would likely result in significant regional benefits.
“I look forward to reviewing the results of the effectiveness of the structures in maintaining and enhancing local fish stocks and increasing recreational fishing opportunities in the South-West,” Mr Grylls said.
“I am pleased the Royalties for Regions project included fabrication works by South-West companies and involved other regional businesses in transport and deployment.”
In a special event at Quindalup boat ramp, Mr Buswell said the Department of Fisheries and Recfishwest would measure the benefits of these high-tech, purpose-built, reefs.
“Recfishwest is helping to spread the word to the recreational fishing community about the benefits the reefs are likely to bring to fishers living in and visiting the South-West,” he said.
Haejoo has donated one of its 10-tonne reef modules to the City of Busselton for permanent display at the Quindalup boat ramp to be used for public education.
More details on new South-West artificial reefs available at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au
