Habitat Reef modules deployed in Mackay
Jan 31, 2022
Fantastic to finally see the Habitat Reef modules being deployed at the base of 3 fishing platforms in the Pioneer River estuary in Mackay.
The reefs were positioned close to accessible fishing platforms to increase recreational fishing opportunities for kids, families, people with disabilities, the elderly and tourists. The Habitat Reefs (2 x designs) are designed to improve fish habitat by providing hard structurally complex structures with high surface rugosity (roughness) to improve settlement surfaces and increase recruitment of sessile marine organisms such as bivalves and corals.
The modules have 2 separate chambers; a bottom cave for iconic recreational fishing species such as barramundi, mangrove jack and estuary cod and a top chamber only accessible via smaller openings to provide refuge for juvenile fish species.
Thanks to Mackay Regional Council who have displayed great leadership and vison to undertake the first fish habitat improvement project of this type in QLD which will improve fishing opportunities for the local community and visitors to Mackay.
To see the 7 News report with our Fisheries Ecologist, Matt Moore, please follow the link: