Reef to boost diving and fishing in Moreton Bay

The Palaszczuk Government has selected a regionally based Queensland contractor who will build a new artificial reef to benefit fishers and divers in Moreton Bay Marine Park.

Minister for Employment and Small Business Shannon Fentiman said that Townsville based company Pacific Marine Group Pty. Ltd. will install 38 purpose built structures by December 2018.

The 30 hectare reef will be built in waters 10-12 metres deep and will be situated near Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island, approximately 1.5 kilometres north of Adder Rock Camping Ground, managed by Minjerribah Camping Pty Ltd.

“Diving and recreational fishing is about to get even better on the beautiful North Stradbroke Island coast with a $1 Million artificial reef project as part of the Queensland Government’s $30 million Marine Infrastructure Fund.” Ms Fentiman said.

“Within months of completion, divers will see an array of sea creatures around the purpose built structures, and within 18 months fishing will be improved substantially.

“This project will be a collaborative initiative between Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), the Traditional Owners of North Stradbroke Island and the Queensland Government.

Ms Fentiman said she has approved the location and uses for the reef after Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) led discussions through a working group.

The working group consists of representatives from the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol, Maritime Safety Queensland, the Queensland Seafood Industry Association as well as tourism, fishing, diving and environment groups.

QYAC CEO Cameron Costello said the artificial reef would be another step in recognising Quandamooka Country as a globally recognised eco-cultural tourism destination.

“For thousands of years, Quandamooka people have used fishing to build a livelihood for themselves, their families, and their communities.

“It is exciting to be involved in projects that see our people actively playing a role in creating future fishing and diving opportunities on Quandamooka country.

“I congratulate the stakeholders involved for the collective positive approach that has contributed to this project,” Mr Costello said.

Redland City Mayor, Karen Williams said she welcomed the State’s contribution to our marine infrastructure, and the tourism, business and recreational benefits it will bring to the City.

“Moreton Bay is at the heart of Redland City, supporting mainland communities on the coast and an archipelago of island villages including North Stradbroke, Coochiemudlo and our Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

Ms Fentiman said the purpose-built concrete structures would be similar to those previously used in Moreton Bay and Hervey Bay.

“These purpose built concrete reefs will be low maintenance, last more than 30 years and can withstand significant storm events,” she said.

“Moreton Bay already has seven artificial reefs that provide fantastic fishing opportunities for the south-east, and this reef will further enhance recreational opportunities.”

ENDS

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