Trawl fisher becomes Reef Guardian

Townsville local Neil Mogensen has become the first commercial trawl industry member to join the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian programme.

As part of the programme, commercial fishers work with GBRMPA to identify and deliver best fishing practices that help protect the marine environment and ensure sustainable fish stocks along the Great Barrier Reef.

Mogensen is a second generation commercial fisherman who began working in the industry in 1998 and will be the first member of his industry recognised as part of the programme.

GBRMPA Chairman Dr Russell Reichelt (jpictured) said it was an important step to recognise those commercial trawl fishers who are operating at the highest environmental standard in the Great Barrier Reef and encourage others in the industry to adopt similar core operational fishing practices.

The Great Barrier Reef deserves its reputation as one of the best managed marine ecosystems in the world. This was confirmed by the release of the 2015 State Party Report on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area which highlights improvements in the management and protection of the iconic reef.

"We remain committed to working with industry and local communities to build the resilience of the Reef, help reduce pressures on the inshore environment and ensure a viable long-term commercial fishing industry," Dr Reichelt said.

Approximately only seven per cent of the Marine Park is trawled more than once per year (general use zones) and all trawl vessels are monitored via a satellite-based vessel monitoring system.

"Mr Mogensen’s actions and attitude towards sustainable fishing and the need to fish for the future lead the way for others in the trawl industry," Dr Reichelt said.

Participating fishers publicly show their commitment to the Reef by displaying a Reef Guardian sign on their boats.