Queensland Government
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

28 April 2014

Burnett River closed to all forms of netting

Fishers looking to cast or bait net in the Bundaberg town area are reminded to brush up on the rules about where they can and can’t fish.

This reminder comes after a number of fishers – both recreational and commercial – have been found to be netting in the Town Reach area of the Burnett River.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district officer Geoff Fergusson said it was the responsibility of all fishers to know the rules before going fishing.

“The Town Reach between the Rowers Club and the western tip of Harriett Island of the Burnett River is closed to all forms of netting,” Mr Fergusson said.

“Generally, local fishers stick to the rules and stay out of closed waters, however we’ve recently received multiple complaints of illegal netting in the restricted area.

“The closed area extends from the fishing boundary board placed at Queens Park opposite Harriet Island and extends downstream to the junction of Bundaberg Creek and the Burnett River near the Rowers Club, and includes the waters of the Town Reach at Bundaberg in between.

“The closure applies to both commercial and recreational netting, but other forms of recreational fishing are permitted.

“Any fishers caught netting in the area are knowingly doing the wrong thing and are liable for a $440 on-the-spot fine and risk a maximum penalty of $110,000.”

If you suspect illegal fishing, whether seen in person or online, report it to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116. Don’t engage the person, as this can compromise an investigation.

For more information on closed waters and fishing rules in Queensland, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.

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