Saving animals from angling waste

Last year more than 20 bins were installed, from Bayswater to Point Walter, as part of the joint campaign to reduce fishing line entanglements among dolphins, pelicans and other wildlife.

Since launching the campaign, Native Animal Rescue (NAR), Swan River Trust, Recfishwest, Keep Australia Beautiful and riverfront councils have prevented thousands of metres of fishing line polluting waterways.

The Eastern Reporter last month went out on NAR’s boat to assist with its River Connections program in emptying and auditing the fishing line disposal units in Bayswater.

Community project co-|ordinator Emma Johnston said while clearing the bins, NAR volunteers also looked out for distressed animals and other environmental hazards along the river ways.

Ms Johnston said the majority of anglers used the bins for bait bags, lines and hooks but she occasionally found cans, baby nappies and other items.

‘It’s been really exciting to see fishing line add up, we’ve cleared over 1500m from the Bayswater sites and across the 22 bins a couple of thousand metres,’ she said.

‘There are a total of 22 bins out at the moment from Garrett Road down to Point Walter, and even up into the Cannington area, and there are proposed sites for a few more as well.

‘We’re looking at putting one near Tranby House and a couple more around the Como area.’