New artificial reef to be located off Ocean Reef Marina

PERTH’S new artificial reef will be constructed off Ocean Reef Marina after public consultation on the proposal.

The site, located 8 to 10km from shore, was chosen because it was the most easily accessible from Hillarys, Ocean Reef and Mindarie marinas.

The exact positioning, size and design of the reef will be determined after the completion of an in-water survey and further consultation with Recfishwest.

It is planned to be in place by early 2020.

Recfishwest operations manager Leyland Campbell said they asked what recreational fishers wanted and consultation showed Ocean Reef was “by far the preferred location for a purpose-built reef”.

“As long as recreational fishers keep asking for purpose-built reefs, we will keep making them,” he said.

He said they would be looking to create the biggest reef possible with the available funding.

The reef will be predominantly constructed of concrete modules designed for multiple species including samson fish, silver trevally, pink snapper and breaksea cod, which will provide quality fishing opportunities without fishers needing to travel long distances.

“These reefs create new habitat for fish and great new fishing opportunities,” Mr Campbell said.

“The reef will be placed in a depth perfect for both divers and line fishers.”

Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly said the State Government was delivering on an election commitment to improve recreational fishing in WA.

“This metro artificial reef is great news for anglers looking for a new fishing experience, but also great news for jobs and the economy,” he said.

“We know this location will service some of Perth’s most popular boat ramps and the growing northern suburbs population.

“I thank all community members who took the time to attend public meetings and complete the online survey, run through Recfishwest, to determine the best location for WA’s seventh artificial reef.”