Recfishwest is excited to announce plans to install a new artificial reef off the coast of Port Hedland in partnership with BHP.
A new addition to the State’s network of seven current artificial reefs, the new Port Hedland Reef will be in around 20m of water off the coast and create new fish habitat for popular recreational fishing species such as coral trout, Rankin cod, red emperor and Spanish mackerel.
The new reef will complement other initiatives for the avid Pilbara fishing town, including the fish aggregation devices (FADs – also installed in partnership with BHP) and the state-of-the-art Spoilbank Marina and will realise a long-held aspiration of the Port Hedland fishing community.
Recfishwest has partnered with DPIRD to install all seven of the State’s reefs with each of the reefs providing significant fishing opportunities, environmental benefits and an uptick in fishing tourism wherever they have been installed.
Recfishwest has been working with DPIRD to obtain the permit for the reef’s installation, which is currently going through rigorous commonwealth approvals, with installation of the reef likely towards the end of the year.
Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said, “This reef will build on the success of the seven artificial reefs already on the ocean floor around the State, with many more in the pipeline to make our great fishing even better!
“The waters off Port Hedland are habitat-limited for a range of important recreational fishing species. So, this reef is an opportunity to create accessible and enjoyable fishing opportunities in an area proposed by the local community, providing massive benefit to local and visiting fishers in the region.
“It is great to see BHP recognising the value of recreational fishing for the local community and supporting this project to enhance fishing opportunities in the Pilbara.”
BHP WA Iron Ore Asset President Tim Day said he was excited to partner with Recfishwest to provide Port Hedland’s recreational fishing community with more opportunities to fish off the coast.
“Fishing and boating are an important part of the Pilbara lifestyle and while a lot of people have boats, it’s not always easy or safe to get out on the water. A new reef will be a game changer, providing more opportunities to throw in a line,” Mr Day said.
“What’s good for the Pilbara is good for BHP – and projects like this one will continue to ensure Port Hedland is a great place to live and work.”
In addition to supporting the reef and fish aggregating devices, BHP also made a $12.4 million contribution to the newly opened Spoilbank Marina project as part of its commitment to healthy environments and creating thriving communities.
While the first phase of the reef’s development is already funded, there are opportunities for other partners to join the project to make the artificial reef even bigger and better. So if this is of interest to you, reach out to us here and help us make fishing better across WA!
