Cowaramup Bay to become marine protected area

September 28, 1998

The South-West's popular Cowaramup Bay is to become a marine protected area, Fisheries Minister Monty House announced today.

The taking of live sea shells, rock crabs, sea urchin, octopus and algae from the marine protected area would not be permitted. However, other fishing would still be allowed within the bay.

The Minister praised the Margaret River Surf Riders Foundation, Gracetown Progress Association and the community for their initiative and foresight in proposing a protection for the reef.

Mr House said while Cowaramup Bay's reef was protected, visitors and the local community were still welcome to enjoy and learn from its many attractions.

"It is expected the marine protection status for Cowaramup Bay would be in place for summer," he said.

Registering Cowaramup Bay as a marine protected area follows the introduction of similar protection for Yallingup reef.

The State's first Fish Habitat Protection Area has also been proposed for the Abrolhos Islands and several marine conservation reserves, under the Conservation and Land Management Act, were under consideration around the State.

"The ongoing protection and conservation of our fish resources and marine environment is a significant program within the Fisheries portfolio," Mr House said.

"We have undertaken a number of important initiatives in this program in recent times including protecting the Great White Shark from recreational and commercial fishing and introducing a temporary fishing ban around the HMAS Swan wreck in Geographe Bay."

The Minister said the marine protection of Cowaramup Bay was an excellent example of a pro-active community working with Government to preserve an important and popular marine habitat.

Media contact: Julie Cole [08] 9481 2044