Mary River Cod

Photo by Gympie Times

Proposed changes to the Fisheries Regulation 2008

Queensland Government is considering closing Obi Obi Creek to all line fishing from its Mary River junction upstream to Baroon Pocket dam.

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is asking for submissions from interested parties, which can be made by completing an online survey or emailing/posting a written submission

This consultation process closes 5pm, Friday 19 July 2019

See the link below (get involved section) for the propose amendments to the Fisheries Regulation 2008, the online survey and the submission process.

Change 41 of the discussion paper details the Obi Obi Creek closure.

https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/fisheries

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A submission

TO FISHERIES MANAGERS AT D.A.F.

A submission by interested parties regarding the proposed closure of Obi obi Creek.

Re: the proposed closure (section 41 of plan) of Obi Obi Creek to all line fishing from its junction with the Mary River at Kenilworth, upstream to the wall of Baroon Pocket Dam to protect the breeding of the Mary River cod.

Our local community have fished here sustainably for over 100 years and recently some have played part in the breeding and releasing of the iconic Mary River Cod, were pleased when this fish was given protection and some went so far as to tell any visiting fisherman they saw that they were to immediately release any cod they caught

In later years only bass was targeted as they were not native to this stream, taking only legal length and only two per fisherman as per the regulations. Any cod caught as bycatch were photographed and released immediately.

Some years ago a section of Obi Creek was closed to fishing from the bridge at number 4 crossing to the wall at Baroon Pocket Dam but due to fisheries staff in the area being understaffed, were not able to properly police this area. More signage would be of benefit to reduce the need for total closure.

If this proposal is enacted, the law abiding residents on and around Obi Obi Creek will at the very least be most upset at this invasion of their rights to sustainably use this important part of our heritage. Not only riparian landholders on the creek but other residents of the valley as well as adjoining Kidaman Creek residents. For our community, fishing is part of the history of life in the valley, its learning and enjoyment has been passed from generation to generation and should be continued for future generations.

Our community can see the benefit of a breeding cycle closure; so why not apply a closed season from 1st August to 31st October to Obi creek in lieu of a total ban to fall in line with other streams? This would be workable if applied in conjunction with the now total ban from Crossing Number 4 to Lake Baroon wall and far easier to man than a total ban for the whole creek and cost wise would only involve a few more prominent signs.

We are aware that not all people who live in our community fish but we feel they should have the right to do so if they so desire.

Contact John Cutmore if you would like to be part of the submission above

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