Tuesday 6 December 2005

A new specialist team, focused solely on compliance in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, has proven a great success in recent months and will be heading out to different parts of the Marine Park in the lead-up to the festive season to ensure people are doing the right thing.

GBRMPA Operations Director Mick Bishop said the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Field Operations Team began operations in July 2005 and comprised three experienced Marine Park inspectors, based in Mackay and Cairns.

“The team operates from a purpose-built vessel the ‘Bimbi Eungie’, specifically designed to conduct compliance and surveillance in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park,” he said.

“The team provides a highly mobile unit that can be deployed to strengthen existing surveillance and compliance presence in key locations.

“They have already made an impact in areas they have patrolled, apprehending 51 people for Green Zone fishing offences and educating scores more in the first four months of operation.

“The Field Operations Team joins seven agencies with more than 150 enforcement officers in monitoring zoning across the entire Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.”

Mr Bishop said educating users of the Marine Park on zoning requirements was an important role for the Field Operations Team.

“Activity in the Marine Park is always heightened this time of year with people on holidays and heading out on the water to catch the traditional Queensland seafood in time for Christmas,” he said.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is urging all Marine Park users to consult zoning maps and relevant information prior to heading out on the water.

“There are a range of zoning guides and maps widely available at bait and tackle stores. We encourage anglers to regularly refresh their zoning knowledge,” Mr Bishop said.

“It is important for fishermen to familiarise themselves with the legislation and the different provisions governing green, blue and yellow zones.”

Since the zoning was implemented in July last year, more than 350 Zoning Plan fishing offences have been reported or detected.

A photo of the Field Operations Team with the vessel ‘Bimbi Eungie’ is available by emailing media@gbrmpa.gov.au or calling the above phone numbers.