COTS combat recruits are killing it

An increasing number of Indigenous Queenslanders are signing up as recruits to help rid the reef of Crown of Thorns Starfish.

Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Curtis Pitt today met with the latest indigenous participants in the combat program to thank them for their valuable work.

“This invasive pest is probably one of the most destructive creatures Mother Nature ever created and our dedicated combat teams are just as relentless in hunting the starfish down,” Mr Pitt said.

“They spend 10 days straight out at sea diving and poisoning crown of thorns starfish infestations, which can be in the thousands.

“Their discipline and dedication to the job is truly impressive as they learn what it takes to get the job done and manage family commitments away from home, making them truly job ready.

“The program as a whole has a success rate of 85 per cent full-time employment outcomes. 

“The Queensland Government is committed to supporting initiatives that create employment pathways and open up opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders. 

“While these guys are working to save the Great Barrier Reef from one of its greatest threats, they’re also learning valuable social and life skills through the six month traineeship program.

“Participants of the program finish with a Certificate III Tourism - an important qualification that provides a pathway essential for employment opportunities within the tourism industry.

“The skills and expertise gained during the traineeship will no doubt lead to successful employment outcomes in many relevant industries within our region and throughout the world.

“I am thrilled to see the fantastic work that the Crown of Thorns Starfish program, administered by the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, is doing to and beat this blight on our greatest natural wonder.

Media Contact:        0419 945 546