Park officers keep an eye on zones

Solitary Islands Marine Park officers are preparing for a busy holiday period.

The recent warm weather has seen an increase in boating activity in the Solitary Islands Marine Park and this will continue through the school holiday season.

“Typically, the few weeks after Christmas are when locals and visitors to the area enjoy a range of experiences in the Solitary Islands Marine Park including, surfing, swimming, diving and fishing,” said park manager Nicola Johnstone.

“Officers will be patrolling the offshore waters of the park as well as estuaries and foreshores to ensure visitors are aware of the zoning plan in place and ensure people are abiding by the regulations.

“Before commencing any fishing within the marine park anglers should check where sanctuary zones are as fishing and anchoring is prohibited in this zone.”

Officers regularly check these locations and penalties apply for people not observing the regulations. Ms Johnstone said about 88 per cent of the park is outside the sanctuary zones therefore opportunities for fishing in a range of environments are available.

Solitary Islands Marine Park brochures outlining where zones are located, including GPS marks, are available from the Solitary Islands Marine Park office as well as from many accommodation outlets, general stores, service stations and bait and tackle stores.

Fisheries and Marine Park officers will be checking that recreational fishers have a recreational fishing licence. These are available at bait and tackle stores, the Solitary Islands Marine Park office and a range of general stores and other outlets adjacent to the park.

Visitors who are unsure of the rules should contact the Solitary Islands Marine Park office on 6652 3977 or at 32 Marine Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty, near the Water Police to speak with an officer or obtain a copy of the user guide.

Further information can be found on the Solitary Islands Marine Park web site at www.mpa.nsw.gov.au/simp.html or the Department of Primary Industries Fisheries web site www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries