White spot disease fishing restrictions
Fishing restrictions are in place around all prawn farms in the Logan River region.
Because fishing near these farms could introduce serious diseases, line fishing is prohibited within 100 metres of prawn farm water intake and outlet channels and all fishing is prohibited in drainage channels surrounding these prawn farms.
Crab pots, cast nets and yabby pumps can be used in waterways adjacent to prawn farms, unless signage states otherwise. Raw prawns, yabbies and marine worms cannot be moved out of the white spot disease movement restriction area.
The fishing restrictions apply to waterways surrounding prawn farms in Alberton, Coomera, Gilberton, Helensvale, Hope Island, Jacobs Well, Norwell, Ormeau, Pimpama, Southern Moreton Bay Islands, Stapylton, Steiglitz and Woongoolba.
Why are the fishing restrictions in place?
Prawn farms are high-risk areas for aquatic diseases. Fishing near prawn farm intake and outlet channels and in any on-farm water channels may increase the likelihood of a disease being introduced to the farm if contaminated bait is used.
How long will the restrictions be in place?
The fishing restrictions are in place indefinitely.
What is white spot disease?
White spot disease is a highly contagious viral infection that affects crustaceans such as prawns, yabbies and marine worms.
When found in high intensity production areas, such as prawn farms, white spot disease results in the rapid mortality of prawns.
The virus that causes white spot disease does not affect humans at all, so prawns are safe to eat.
How do I report illegal fishing?
If you see illegal fishing please report it via the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116 or phone the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23.