New reef observation areas at Houtman Abrolhos Islands

16/5/94

Tourists, scuba divers and researchers will benefit from four new reef observation areas at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands.

The areas were announced today by Fisheries Minister Monty House at the opening of the International Marine Biological Workshop being held at the Abrolhos this week.

"The reef observation areas were created to provide areas where people can view good quality reef habitats and special reef features with substantial resident fish populations," Mr House said.

"Highly vulnerable resident fin-fish species such as westralian jewfish, baldchin groper and coral trout will be protected in these areas."

Reef observation area locations include:

·       North Island (near the southern end of the island);

·       Wallabi Group (east of the islands encompassing areas around Long Island, Beacon Island and Easter Island);

·       Easter Group (area around Leo Island and White Island);

·       Pelsaert Group (coral patches north of Pelsaert Island).

The reef observation areas were recommended last year in the Abrolhos Islands Aquatic Reserve final report, prepared by the Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council (AICC).

It proposed an integrated fisheries management plan for the major fisheries surrounding the Abrolhos Islands rock lobster, scallop and wet-line fisheries.

The report proposed that an area around the Houtman Abrolhos Islands become the first fish habitat management area in Western Australia.  Drop-lining, long-lining and set-line fishing would be prohibited in the area designated as an aquatic reserve.

Media contact:  Will Henwood (09) 481 2044