The system of interconnected temperature rocky reefs on Australia’s southern coast is a biodiversity hot spot. Spanning more than 8,000 km and covering an area of 71,000 square kilometers marine scientists say it is the temperate equivalent of the Great Barrier Reef (ABC News, 2020). The weedy sea dragon; Victoria’s marine emblem can be found…
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Plastic pollution has become a serious global environmental concern with the United Nations estimating there will be more plastic in our oceans than fish by 2050 (UN News, 2017). In particular, it is the single-use plastic items (straws, plastic bottles and plastic bags) that remain as persistent materials in our marine environment, overtime breaking down…
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With over 600 species of marine fish swimming around Victorian waters, counting fish certainly sounds like a daunting task as a diver or snorkeller signed up to the Great Victorian Fish Count. Luckily, this program has developed a simplified, user friendly system to counting fish swimming about in their natural habitats! Since 2002 the Great…
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This week we are treated to a series of online presentations “Virtually Marine Mammals” from Dr Kate Robb and her team from a small not-for-profit charity organisation – Marine Mammal Foundation that contributes to research, education, outreach and conservation of marine mammals and their environment. Presented with the research conducted in 2011 when Dr Robb…
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Juvenile snapper have been swarming Port Phillip Bay in recent months; feeding aggressively and being found extensively. These young snapper, known as ‘pinkies’ are showing up in schools we have not experienced for many years and studies conducted by Fisheries Scientist Paul Haymer, may just reveal why! The Snapper; one of Victoria’s most sought-after and…
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Marine pests are highly invasive non-native animals and plants that can reproduce quickly and outcompete native species; damaging our unique marine environments. Victorian temperate waters are home to a variety of unique marine wildlife; infact 85% are found nowhere is in the world. Therefore, taking good care of this ecosystem is extremely important. Use the…
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Fishcare Victoria staff members Mitch McMaster and Sarah Van Stokrom along with Melbourne Volunteer Tom Clayson attended the National Recreational Fishing conference in Hobart on the 10th & 11th of December and on behalf of the volunteers and staff team at Fishcare, accepted the National Recreational Fishing Award for best project promoting young peoples participation…
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At the recent Fishcare Victoria 2019 State Conference, Brian Tracey was awarded a life membership. Brian Tracey has made an outstanding contribution to both Fishcare Melbourne and Fishcare Victoria Programs. Brian started in 2007, helping with the schools program through the Hobson’s Bay Fishing Club, run by Remy and Maxzina Fuller. Brian became Melbourne President…
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Volunteers and Fishcare Staff attended the Fishcare Victoria Annual Conference in Queenscliff over the weekend of the 29th of November. The conference is a time for volunteers to undertake training and learn more about what is happening in the recreational fishing sector as well as network with volunteers across the state and have a great…
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Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in Australia. While so many fishers take for granted the opportunity of heading to the water and casting a line, it is evident that there are barriers hindering people with disabilities from being able to do the same. The Fishcare Victoria All Abilities Fishing Clinic –…
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