The Noosa Integrated Catchment Association (NICA) and OzFish Noosa Chapter, in partnership with Noosa Council, are pleased to announce the roll-out of new, purpose-built and fully recycled fishing line recovery bins at popular locations along the Noosa River.
The network of 30 bins, easily identified by their distinct Noosa-oriented styling, will enable recreational fishermen to dispose of fishing waste, line and tackle responsibly, removing the threat of entanglement and injury to our iconic marine wildlife.
NICA president Dr Jan Green said it was wonderful to be involved in the renewal of this key initiative once again.
“NICA was involved in the design and installation of the first network of fishing line bins in Noosa Shire in 2004 but the distinct PVC bins have long since passed their used-by date.
“In recent years we have observed a marked increase in injuries to wildlife from discarded fishing line along the Noosa River. It has been great to work in partnership with OzFish’s new Noosa chapter to develop and install a new purpose-built and fully recycled network to address this key issue”.
“Given the increase in recreational fishing along the Noosa River its important we provide the community with a sustainable means to discard fishing line and tackle. This network addresses that need and we look forward to seeing how the community responds.”
Ben Broadfoot, President of OzFish Noosa Chapter and a keen recreational angler is proud of their achievement and of the collaboration between OzFish and NICA.
“To be able to work with NICA and Noosa Council on this important project has been great. I think every recreation fisher knows the importance of keeping waterways clean and free of waste.
“With this program we highlight what we as anglers can do to help keep our fishing waste not only out of the waterway but more importantly away from any harm it can do to our precious wildlife.”
“To be able to refresh the Noosa River fishing line recovery bins with this project and also work with BCF and Tangaroa Blue with the Rig Recycling bins located in the Noosa BCF store, we really do have most bases covered for fishing tackle waste disposal in Noosa.
“I hope that every fisher gets on board with these great initiatives and utilises either the fishing line recovery bin network along the Noosa River or the Rig Recycling bin at BCF.”
Support and funding for this initiative was provided by Noosa Council under the Environment Grants program 2021.
Further updates regarding the project, including opportunities for the community to participate, will be posted on NICA’s social media and website at noosariver.com.au
