According to dive operator Greg Riddell fishing in the conservation park area has become an increasing problem, despite hefty State Government licence fees. He told that they pay hefty fees as long as the Government follows through with their part of the bargain. He also said that the effects illegal fishing could have on diver safety and tourism were already informed to the government.
He explained that the scene include a lot of hook and line and also seeing fish caught up on the wreck as well – fish swimming around with tackle hanging from their mouths, that type of thing. It’s just a little bit off-putting for people when they come there thinking that it is a conservation zone and they see those things – they’re a little bit put out by it, it’s just not right, says Riddell.
Liberal National Party (LNP) Maroochydore MP, Fiona Simpson, says policing has been left up to dive operators. She added that it’s one thing to say that there’s a plan to protect the environment but it’s another thing when there’s no resources actually assigned to it. The acting Climate Change and Sustainability Minister, Annastacia Palaszczuk, yesterday announced patrols of the wreck area will be ramped up.
