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Petition launched for artificial reef for anglers on the Central Coast

A petition has been launched for an artificial reef on the Central Coast for recreational and commercial anglers. Have your say in our online poll here.

Two new artificial reefs planned for NSW

The Central Coast has one of the highest rates of recreational anglers in NSW with one in four adults holding a fishing licence.

Now on the 10-year anniversary of the scuttling of the HMAS Adelaide, Terrigal State Liberal MP Adam Crouch wants another artificial reef just for anglers.

Mr Crouch has launched a petition to take to the NSW Government, which is seeking expressions of interest for locations to construct two new artificial reefs off the state’s coastline.

The government is calling for expressions of interest for a new reef off the NSW coast somewhere.
The government is calling for expressions of interest for a new reef off the NSW coast somewhere.

Mr Crouch said an online petition was created to seek funding and support from the NSW Government to design and construct an offshore reef.

“Our coastline boasts some of the most vibrant ocean environments in NSW, and the ex-HMAS Adelaide is a fantastic example of the remarkable transformation that a single site can have on the surrounding area,” Mr Crouch said.

“The ex-HMAS Adelaide site is quite rightly designated a marine reserve but I want to ensure that local fishers have a similar type of reef to enjoy.

“Creating a million-dollar offshore artificial reef would be an amazing tourism driver, while also providing a benefit to thousands of keen local fishers across a range of ages.”

Artificial reefs can be made from a variety of materials from concrete to giant terracotta pots.
Artificial reefs can be made from a variety of materials from concrete to giant terracotta pots.

New reefs in Batemans Bay and Jervis Bay will be completed in 2021 and 2022 respectively, adding to those already installed off Sydney, South Sydney, Shoalhaven, Port Macquarie, Merimbula, Newcastle and Wollongong.

Mr Crouch said fishing was an integral part of the Central Coast’s lifestyle and economy.

“We must get the balance right between protecting and conserving our environment for the future, while also ensuring our beaches and waterways remain open to all,” Mr Crouch said.

“I’m hoping to gain as much support as possible from recreational fishers, spearfishers, commercial operators and local residents before presenting this petition to the Agriculture Minister.”

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/central-coast/petition-launched-for-artificial-reef-for-anglers-on-the-central-coast/news-story/993d049e560b1c5fbf1263b4a3d7d5ae