Bush 'n Beach Fishing Magazine Location reports & tips for fishing, boating, camping, kayaking, 4WDing in Queensland and Northern NSW
In March 2023, NSW DPIRD Fisheries Officers conducted a routine patrol at the Hammer Head Sanctuary Zone in Jervis Bay Marine Park. During this patrol, officers observed two men fishing from a boat inside the protected sanctuary zone.
The Hammer Head Sanctuary Zone is clearly marked with four yellow buoys and shore-based markers. Despite these indicators and a zoning map available at the Currarong Boat Ramp, both these recreational fishers did not adhere to the marine park management rules. The fishers were interviewed in relation to the matter and were issued $500 penalty notices under Section 41 of the Marine Estate Management Act 2014.
The matter was brought before the Nowra Local Court on Tuesday, 9 July. The Magistrate underscored the importance of fishers’ responsibility to be aware of their obligations. The Court acknowledged the maximum penalty for the offence is $55,000, reflecting the gravity of taking marine life from within a highly protected sanctuary zone of the marine park. Ultimately, the defendant was convicted and fined $1,000. Additionally, he was ordered to pay $750 in professional costs, with 50% of the fines allocated to the prosecutor under Section 122 of the Fines Act.
Information on marine park management rules, including detailed zoning maps can be accessed by downloading the FishSmart App from the Apple or Android Stores. They are also available online.
NSW DPIRD encourages the public to report suspected illegal fishing or marine park offences to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or via the online form located on NSW DPIRD Fisheries website here.
