Illegal fishing at Lennox’s Moat/Bream Hole brings fines
The manager of the Cape Byron Marine Park, Andrew Page, has reminded fishers that the Moat/Bream Hole area at Lennox Head is within the Cape Byron Marine Park and has asked fishers, if unsure of the marine park zones in the area, to check their guides.
He said that in the last few weeks a number of fishers had been fined for illegally fishing in the area.
“While most of the park is open to recreational fishing, fishing in the Moat/Bream Hole area is actually prohibited as it is a marine park sanctuary, which gives full protection to this unique, coastal rocky foreshore,” Mr Page said.
“Meanwhile, the area immediately adjacent to the Lennox Head boardwalk is a special-purpose zone and is only open to fishing for people with a disability under a marine parks permit.”
Mr Page said only a short walk away from this sanctuary and special-purpose zone is a habitat protection zone where recreational fishing is allowed.
“I recommend anyone without a zoning guide to get one,” he said.
“Fines for fishing illegally in any of the State’s six marine parks are quite substantial. Each breach can result in a $500 on-the-spot fine.
“Repeat offenders and individuals with multiple breaches may be taken to court and if found guilty may face penalties in excess of $11,000.
“It is important to know your zones and the types of gear prohibited in NSW waters, for example cast nets.
“Signs providing information on marine park zones have also been put up at various points on the shore. We want to ensure everyone enjoys the Cape Byron Marine Park and its beauty.”
Mr Page said copies of the zoning map were free from tourist information centres, libraries, Ballina Fisheries Office, most places of accommodation, bait and tackle shops and at the Department of Environment and Climate Change’s Arakwal Depot on Tallow Beach Road, Byron Bay. He said fishers could also contact the depot on 6620 9300.
Mr Page said the zoning map could also be viewed and downloaded from the NSW Marine Parks Authority website.
