Add Category
The Burrunan dolphin, Tursiops aduncus australis, is a subspecies or potential species of bottlenose dolphin only found in Port Phillip Bay and the Gippsland Lakes.
A number of environmental and community groups have now contacted the minister, including the Port Phillip Conservation Council, Nepean Conservation Group, Rye Community Group Alliance, Blairgowrie 3942 and the Nepean Ratepayers.
An example of the type of concrete artificial structures that would be submerged to create the reef at Point Nepean.
But the artificial reef, which is due to be installed in the next fortnight, has the support of David Kramer, the director of the Futurefish Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes recreational fishing in Victoria.
Mr Kramer pointed out it would be the 14th artificial reef to go into Port Phillip Bay, and there have been no concerns raised about previous projects.
The same triangular structures had been installed at Shoalhaven, in NSW, and other parts of Australia, purposefully to attract yellowtail kingfish, he said. The texture and surface of the artificial reefs attract quick seaweed growth and shellfish, and are “beautiful to dive on”, Mr Kramer said.
“Victorian Fisheries [Authority] have already obtained all the permissions needed – they don’t need to ask permission of loud-mouth so-called environmentalists down on the Mornington Peninsula,” he said.
At the 2018 state election, the government promised to improve fish habitats in Port Phillip Bay with artificial reefs, including a kingfish reef. The location of this reef was not confirmed at the time.
A spokesperson for the state government said the artificial reefs were planned for an area of the bay that saw a high volume of anglers, and the reefs would help them stay clear of the nearby shipping channel to avoid accidents and injuries.
Loading
“These projects ... provide additional fish habitat in areas where natural habitat is limited, creating a more sustainable bay while increasing safety for boaters,” the spokesperson said.
The reef’s location is supported by Port Phillip Bay’s harbour master and is located away from shipping channels, marine parks, quarantine areas, the government said.
A guide to the environment, what’s happening to it, what’s being done about it and what it means for the future. Sign up to our fortnightly Clear Air newsletter here.