Glenelg chosen as site for Adelaide shellfish reef by The Nature Conservancy
A $1.2 million artificial shellfish reef the size of Adelaide Oval will be built off the coast of Glenelg, boosting fishing in the area, creating a diving attraction and filtering water.
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An Adelaide-first artificial reef will be built at Glenelg after a successful bid from Holdfast Bay Council.
It will be built off the coast of Glenelg North by environmental group The Nature Conservancy, with funding from the State Government and Holdfast Bay.
The shellfish reef, built from limestone and old shells, will be one of only a handful of large artificial reefs built off the coast of a capital city worldwide.
It will be 2ha – the size of Adelaide Oval.
Holdfast Bay this month threw in a $20,000 bid for the project, which was also being considered for Port Noarlunga and O’Sullivan Beach.
Glenelg was chosen after public consultation and scientific advice.
Millions of baby oysters will be sewn through the reef, which help filter seawater and create a habitat for other native fish and shellfish.
The Nature Conservancy marine restoration co-ordinator Anita Nedosyko said the reef was a boon for both Glenelg and Adelaide.
“Oysters are excellent water filterers, with each one filtering 100 litres of water a day,” Ms Nedosyko said.
“This helps improve local water conditions which supports the return of other ecosystems like seagrass.”
Holdfast Bay Mayor Amanda Wilson said the reef would help clarify water from the treatment works at Glenelg North and protect sand.
“This is a huge win for our environment and marine tourism,” Mrs Wilson said.
“The reef will attract fish and provide a wonderful dive spot close to the city.
Environment Minister David Speirs said more than 1500 responses were received about the potential location of a reef, with strong support for Glenelg.
“In the end Glenelg was chosen as it offers suitable environmental conditions as well as the opportunities for the community, with such good public transport and beach access to the area,” Mr Speirs said.
“Shellfish reefs were once common along sheltered nearshore areas of South Australia, however, from the late 1800s to mid-1900s the reefs suffered from the impact of overfishing, dredging, water pollution and disease.”
Morphett MP Stephen Patterson praised the project, which he said would have “significant” environmental benefits and “provide a boost to the local economy”.
Construction of the reef will begin in September.