New reports of dead fish in Cockburn Sound

?As we reported recently there were large-scale fish kills in a popular recreational fishing area in WA. In further news to hand, there is photographic evidence of seabird
deaths and swimmers are reporting that rashes have broken out on their
bodies.

Meantime, rec anglers are up in arms over the apparent lack in
action and the thousands of dead fish in the popular Perth fishing area. And the WA Fisheries Minister has contradicted the advice from his department, warning people not to go in the water, while the department said there should be no problem.

As part of ongoing work to investigate the recent fish deaths in Cockburn Sound, checks are continuing into new reports of large numbers of dead blowfish and some dead snapper on both sides of the Garden Island Causeway and also near Point Peron boat ramp. Some 14 species of fish have been found dead.

Supervising Scientist, for the Department of Fisheries’ Biodiversity and Biosecurity branch, Dr Michael Snow said provided fresh samples could be collected the latest reports may provide further information on what may have triggered the recent fish kills in Cockburn Sound.

But there's been nothing conclusive said about the cause of the massive fish kills, as speculation runs rife from everything from a chemical dump, to a canola spill to an algae outbreak. Answers are needed.

"Staff members from our Fish Health branch have today been collecting some samples of the blowfish to see if we can get some fish gills in testable condition to help assess whether there is any new evidence of what has caused the deaths," Dr Snow said.

"We regularly remind people not to swim or fish in water that looks discoloured, murky, or smells unpleasant, or where there are large numbers of dead fish, so they need to apply that advice in areas where dead fish are located."

Any fish kills should be reported to Fishwatch on 1800 815 507. More information about fish kills can be found on the Department of Fisheries’ website at www.fish.wa.gov.au.

People are also reminded that fishing for crabs in Cockburn Sound is prohibited, due to an ongoing closure, not related to the fish kills.

In addition, both Cockburn and Warnbro sounds have spawning closures on pink snapper fishing in place at present and the sounds are also subject to the annual West Coast demersal finfish closure.

But the well-meaning intent of the closures, forward and supported by the recreational-fishing fraternity, has been undermined by these fish kills. And answers are needed along with better communication from the Fisheries Minister.

Photos: Recfishwest