COMMERCIAL fishers across Queensland are stepping up to help protect the state’s marine wildlife, trialling a new initiative that’s already showing positive results for threatened and endangered species.
A new poster designed to help skippers and crew identify and report interactions with threatened, endangered and protected (TEP) species has been tested on commercial trawl vessels, with encouraging feedback from those on the water.
The poster provides a clear, visual guide to the wide range of marine animals that fishers may encounter during their work – including sea turtles, dolphins, dugongs and seabirds.
It also outlines what to do and how to report an interaction if one occurs.
Fisheries Queensland developed the poster in partnership with commercial fishers to make it easier for crews to recognise and accurately log TEP interactions.
This information plays an important role in helping scientists and fisheries managers monitor the health of marine ecosystems and develop strategies to reduce accidental bycatch.
Fishers who took part in the trial said having a visual reminder on board had been a simple but effective way to boost awareness and encourage accurate reporting.
Many said the poster was easy to use, particularly for new crew members who may not yet be familiar with identifying different species.
Thanks to their valuable feedback, an updated version of the poster will soon be rolled out across Queensland’s trawl fleet.
The new design incorporates suggestions from fishers to make it even more practical and user-friendly in real-world conditions.
Fisheries Queensland said the project showed how collaboration between industry and government could lead to real improvements in environmental outcomes.
This initiative highlights how Queensland’s commercial fishing industry is embracing practical tools to support sustainable fishing and protect our marine life.
The partnership reflects a broader shift within the industry towards innovation and sustainability, ensuring that fishing practices continue to support healthy oceans and viable fisheries for future generations.
With fishers, scientists and regulators working side by side, the message is clear – protecting Queensland’s unique marine species is a shared responsibility, and collaboration is the key to success.
