Freshwater fisheries working group

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group, under a new membership, met on 29 July 2026. The Chair welcomed returning and new members and outlined the objectives for the meeting. Members provided updates from their respective sectors and regions and noted the minutes of the previous meeting.

Fisheries Queensland provided a comprehensive update on freshwater fisheries management, proposed regulatory changes, policy documents under development, upcoming stakeholder engagement, and research and development priorities.

Updates were also provided on previous action items and ongoing priorities. Agri-Science Queensland presented an update on freshwater research, including jungle perch and trevally stocking trials. The Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol reported on recent compliance activities.

The working group considered a proposal to allow broodstock to be collected from fishing competitions and supported the concept in principle. The group raised considerations around biosecurity, genetic integrity and compliance that would need to be managed.

The working group also considered a proposal to manage forktail catfish populations in impoundments by issuing general fisheries permits for control activities. The group supported the proposal in situations where catfish are displacing other native fish and hindering fish stocking efforts. The group also noted forktail catfish's ecological importance in balanced riverine systems and the need to manage public perception that catfish are a pest.

Fisheries Queensland provided an overview of Prosper 2050 Fishing and Seafood Actions noting the extensive stakeholder engagement to date and the recurring themes that have been raised. The group participated in an interactive workshop example activity to contribute to this process.

Members discussed the opportunities and barriers experienced by freshwater fishery stakeholders to inform the ten-year volunteering plan being developed by the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers.

The next working group meeting is tentatively scheduled for November 2027.

Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members present:

• Peter Kind (Chair, Fisheries Queensland)
• John Dexter (Principal Fisheries Manager)
• Tim Lucas (Senior Fisheries Manager)
• John Paul Boehm (Fisheries Manager)
• Joe Boyle (Freshwater Fisheries Officer)
• John Kung (Director, Fisheries Management)
• Michael Hutchison (Agri Science Queensland)
• Paul Kuhn (QBFP)
• Rodney Thompson (fish stocking)
• Robert Swann (proxy for Alison Jones, fish stocking)
• Noel Frost (recreational fishing)
• John Tracey (conservation)
• Paul Lancaster (proxy for Graeme Finsen, conservation)
• Thomas Hayes (aquaculture)
• John Loeskow (aquaculture)
• Garry Fitzgerald (conservation)
• Andrew Baldwin (conservation)
• David Sternberg (NRM)
• Darren Feilder (environmental consultant)
• Jason Murdoch (proxy for Matt Redmond, pest fish)

Apologies:

• Greg Ringwood
• Matt Redmond
• Graeme Finsen
• Alison Jones
• David Roberts
• Hayden Ferguson

Guests:

• Zachary Reimers (DLGWV)
• Renae Kerry (Fisheries Queensland)
• Annabel Kuskie (Fisheries Queensland)

The Freshwater Working Group convened for the seventh time on 24 November 2025. The Chair welcomed the working group and outlined the objectives of the working group meeting. Members gave an update from their respective sectors and/or regions. The members endorsed previous meeting minutes.

The working group acknowledged the launch of Prosper 2050 and the co-design phase of the Queensland Fishing and Seafood Action Plan. Fisheries Queensland highlighted the opportunity for stakeholders to participate with ongoing engagement, which will shape future freshwater management priorities.

Fisheries Queensland provided a comprehensive update on freshwater management, including the finalising of monitoring guidelines for fish stocking, the development of hatchery standards, and the revised broodstock and culture stock collection policy. Updates were also provided on previous action items and ongoing priorities. The working group was informed that membership of the Freshwater Working Group will be open for expression of interest in the new year.

Agri-Science Queensland provided an update on freshwater related research including jungle perch and giant trevally stocking trials. The Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol provided an update on compliance activities.

Biosecurity Queensland provided an update on pest fish management and aquatic animal health.

The working group received an update on a proposal under development with CSIRO to utilise existing data to enhance freshwater fisheries management. Members discussed potential approaches for advancing this work and expressed their support for further development of the project.

The working group held detailed discussions on the future of opera house style traps. Members considered the outcomes of the recent recreational fishing public consultation paper, reviewed evidence about impacts on native wildlife, and discussed the performance of alternative trap designs. The importance of social licence and public expectation were also discussed. After careful deliberation, the group agreed to support a ban of opera house style traps with a sufficient lead in time to allow stakeholders to transition. While this was the overall position of the group, it was not unanimously supported.

Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the new accepted development requirements for waterway barrier works, highlighting the simplified processes.

The working group noted issues related to tagging saratoga and Mary River cod in Lake Borumba and proposed solutions to allow the tagging programs to continue lawfully.

The working group received an update on outcomes of the Mary River Codference and the associated work underway to update the Mary River cod recovery plan including catchments south of the Mary River to the New South Wales border.

The next working group is tentatively scheduled for May 2026.

Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members present:

• Peter Kind (Chair, Fisheries Queensland)
• John Dexter (Principal Fisheries Manager)
• Tim Lucas (Senior Fisheries Manager)
• John Paul Boehm (Fisheries Manager-Freshwater)
• Joe Boyle (Freshwater Fisheries Officer)
• John Kung (Director, Fisheries Management)
• Andrew Norris (Agri Science Queensland)
• Greg Ringwood (Research and Science DCCEW)
• Stephen Wesche (Aquatic Animal Health)
• Hayden Ferguson (Biosecurity Queensland)
• David Roberts (Seqwater)
• Chris Delamont (Sunwater)
• Rodney Thompson (fish stocking)
• Chris Joseph (recreational fishing)
• Ross Williamson (recreational fishing)
• Noel Frost (recreational fishing)
• Stephen Morgan (recreational fishing)
• Craig Cluff (aquaculture)
• John Loeskow (aquaculture)
• Paul Kuhn (QBFP)
• Ben Lalley (QBFP)
• Andrew Baldwin (proxy for Garry Fitzgerald, conservation)

Apologies:

• Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall)
• Peter Johnson (Conservation)
• Bruce Gleeson (commercial fishing)
• Michelle Wenner (Fisheries Queensland)
• Kim Anderson (Charter Fishing)
• Peter Delaforce (Recreational fishers)
• Stephen Vidler (Recreational Fishing)
• Garry Fitzgerald (conservation).

The Freshwater Working Group met for the sixth time on 17 March 2025. The Chair welcomed the working group, outlined the objectives of the working group meeting and members endorsed previous minutes. Members gave an update from their respective sectors and/or regions. Fisheries Queensland provided a general update on freshwater management, women in recreational fishing, aquaculture and compliance activities. This included regulatory changes and draft policies awaiting further consultation and celebration of 25 years of SIPS. Agri-Science Queensland provided an update on freshwater related research including jungle perch and giant trevally stocking trials.

The working group noted there are a growing number of organisations looking to conduct control programs in relation to pest fish and discussed options for improving pest fish management. It was noted the requirement for obtaining a restricted matter permit is deterring some organisations from undertaking pest fish control programs. To encourage more uptake of pest fish control programs, it is proposed to issue one permit to the Local Government Association of Queensland to provide easier access and reduce administration for organisations wanting to participate in pest fish control activities. The working group supported this approach. In regard to pest fish disposal the working group discussed alternatives to utilise pest fish without creating commercial activity. The working group discussed an integrated approach to pest fish management.

Fisheries Queensland provided an update on recent work to develop dedicated hatchery resources in Queensland for the purpose of recovery and restocking of threatened native fish. The working group provided feedback on priorities, potential locations and partnership opportunities.

The working group discussed proposed changes to Mary River cod management to protect populations in the Brisbane River, Bremer River and Bundamba Creek and potential changes to possession limits for this species in impoundments where there is significant upstream riverine habitat suitable for Mary River cod spawning. The working group noted there has been successful conservation stocking of Mary River cod in these areas. The aim of the proposed changes is to reduce the number of Mary River cod being caught and interrupted during spawning. The working group supported the proposed changes to extend fishing closures for Mary River cod to Brisbane River, Bremer River and Bundamba Creek and make them no take in Somerset and Wivenhoe dams. It was noted further consultation would be undertaken before any changes are considered.

The working group discussed the current status of Cooper Creek catfish as endangered (IUCN) to improve protection for this species. The working group noted a general decline in catch rate and distribution has been observed in recent years and supported changes to make this species no-take while maintaining the current possession limit for other species of eel-tailed catfish. It was noted further consultation would be undertaken before any changes are considered.

The working group discussed potential to reduce duplication of permitting issued for stocking groups including stocking and salvage. The working group noted further discussion is needed on management of catfish populations in impoundments. There was also discussion around investigations currently underway in response to barred grunter in Leslie Dam.

The next working group is tentatively scheduled for October 2025.

Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members present:

• Peter Kind (Chair, Fisheries Queensland)
• John Dexter (principal Fisheries Manager)
• Christelle Legrand (Freshwater Fisheries Officer)
• Tim Lucas (Senior Fisheries Manager)
• Andrew Norris (Agri Science Queensland)
• Hayden Ferguson (Biosecurity Queensland)
• David Roberts (Seqwater)
• Rodney Thompson (Fish Stocking)
• Ross Williamson (Recreational Fishing)
• Peter Delaforce (Recreational Fishing)
• Stephen Vidler (Recreational Fishing)
• Noel Frost (Recreational Fishing)
• Steve Morgan (Recreational Fishing)
• Craig Cluff (Aquaculture)
• John Loeskow (Aquaculture)
• Kim Andersen (Charter)
• Garry Fitzgerald (Conservation)
• Greg Ringwood (DCCEW)
• Paul Kuhn (QBFP)

Apologies:

• Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall)
• Peter Johnson (Conservation)
• Chris Delamont (Sunwater)
• Bruce Gleeson (commercial fishing)

Observer: NA

The Freshwater Working Group met for the fifth time on 22 May 2024. This was the first sitting of the new working group. The Chair welcomed the working group, outlined the objectives of the working group meeting and members endorsed previous minutes. Members gave an update from their respective sectors and/or regions. Fisheries Queensland provided a general update on freshwater, women in recreational fishing, aquaculture and compliance activities.

The working group noted the draft hatchery standards for stocking in Queensland. Issues for discussion were noted and feedback provided for consideration by Fisheries Queensland. The working group supported the draft standards to be further developed by broader stakeholder consultation before being finalised. Key topics covered in the draft standards included:

• maximising genetic diversity
• broodstock integrity
• management of risks from pests and disease transfer
• health and sanitation of fingerlings
• records of fish movements
• hygiene protocols.

The working group noted the draft policy for broodstock and culture stock collection and provided feedback on the draft policy. Changes to the wording in standard conditions were suggested. The working group agreed that following this meeting the draft be distributed for broader stakeholder consultation before finalising.

The draft Queensland freshwater fisheries strategy was discussed by the working group and feedback provided on the draft. The working group agreed that following this meeting, the strategy will be refined to publication standards and submitted for executive and ministerial consideration. Once approved, future steps may include development of an implementation plan which would include resourcing.

The working group discussed various conservation models for small-bodied native species. It was noted further consultation is required between Fisheries Queensland and the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) regarding the ongoing management of these species. Fisheries Queensland will engage with DESI and report back to working group.

The working group discussed potential topics for the Freshwater Stocking Workshop including flexibility of stocking rates, potential of stocking new species, best practice fish handling and how to maintain stocking group viability. Working group members were encouraged to email suggestions for workshop topics.

The next working group is tentatively scheduled for November 2024.

Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members present:

• Peter Kind (Chair, Fisheries Queensland)
• John Dexter (Principal Fisheries Manager)
• Thomas Hart (Freshwater Fisheries Manager)
• Christelle Legrand (Freshwater Fisheries Officer)
• Tim Lucas (Senior Fisheries Manager)
• Andrew Norris (Agri-Science Queensland)
• Hayden Ferguson (Biosecurity Queensland)
• David Roberts (Seqwater)
• Rodney Thompson (Fish Stocking)
• Ross Williamson (Recreational Fishing)
• Peter Delaforce (Recreational Fishing)
• Stephen Vidler (Recreational fishing)
• Noel Frost (Recreational Fishing)
• Craig Cluff (Aquaculture)
• John Loeskow (Aquaculture)
• Kim Andersen (Charter)
• Bruce Gleeson (Commercial)
• Peter Johnson (Conservation)
• Garry Fitzgerald (Conservation)
• Nicole Whysall (Pest Fish)
• Greg Ringwood (DCCEW)
• Paul Kuhn (QBFP)

Apologies:

• Chris Delamont
• Steve Morgan

Observer:

• Kodee Shannon (Sunwater)

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group met for the fourth time on 16 and 17 May 2023. The Chair welcomed and outlined the objectives of the meeting. Members gave an update from their respective sectors and/or regions. Members noted a significant increase in pest fish following recent weather events. Members raised concern about lack of fish passage in a number of areas. Fisheries Queensland provided a general update on freshwater, women in recreational fishing, aquaculture and compliance activities.

The working group noted issues for discussion and provided feedback regarding the hatchery accreditation policy and the broodstock policy. The key principles in the early draft hatchery accreditation policy were noted. The working group feedback suggests that maintaining genetic diversity is important and should be key in both policies.

The working group noted the current management arrangements for non-indigenous fish and discussed potential clarifications for further consideration by Fisheries Queensland. It was noted there was some confusion in interpreting current arrangements for non-indigenous fish. It was recommended that Fisheries Queensland update the Regulations regarding three key species (sleepy cod, barred grunter, sooty grunter) in line with the approach previously taken with redclaw. Clear communication is essential and clarifying boundary lines will assist with this. The working group discussed the merit that a licence for all Queensland waters could offer to improve funding in the future, but noted that this is not a policy approach currently being considered by the Queensland government.

Biosecurity Queensland (BQ) provided a general update on the progression of pest fish management and current issues. The working group noted the collaborative approach that is currently being adopted by BQ and was well received.

The working group noted issues for discussion and provided feedback to further develop the concept of promoting native fish in aquariums. Graeme Finsen from Australia New Guinea Fishers Association (ANGFA) presented on the objectives of ANGFA and the outreach work they are involved in, in conserving and promoting Australian native fish.

The working group discussed potential research priorities for further consideration by Fisheries Queensland. The main topics considered were threatened species, optimising aquaculture production of certain species, integrated stocking strategies, climate change, fish kills and pest fish. DAF will develop a structured research strategy for consideration of the working group.

The working group discussed the role of volunteer stocking groups in fisheries management. It was noted that the viability of stocking groups and how achieving objectives is becoming more difficult due to increased costs and responsibilities, with a lack of resourcing. The working group recommended that Fisheries Queensland review the current model of delivery for the stocking program to determine what improvements can be made.

The working group discussed how to fully integrate new species (mangrove jack, jungle perch, mullet and trevally) into a stocking program. Issues discussed included overcoming the expense of transitioning to industry uptake of new species, initiating a trial of stocking the species, developing production processes and markets. Fisheries Queensland will undertake internal consultation on potential funding and resourcing mechanisms, and report back to the working group.

The next working group will be held October 2023 with new working group members. Fisheries Queensland thanks the current working group members for their positive contribution.

Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members present:

• Peter Kind (Chair, Fisheries Queensland)
• Thomas Hart (Freshwater Fisheries Manager)
• Christelle Legrand (Freshwater Fisheries Officer)
• Tim Lucas (Senior Fisheries Manager)
• Andrew Norris (Agri Science Queensland)
• Hayden Ferguson (Biosecurity Queensland)
• David Roberts (Seqwater)
• Chris Delamont (Sunwater)
• Ian Leighton (Fish Stocking)
• Joe Legrady (Fish Stocking)
• Ross Williamson (Recreational Fishing)
• Peter Delaforce (Recreational Fishing)
• Craig Cluff (Aquaculture)
• Merilyn Thomas (Conservation)
• Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall)
• Greg Ringwood (Murray Darling Basin Authority)
• Paul Kuhn (QBFP)

Apologies:

• Stephan Gabas (Science and Research)
• Garry Fitzgerald (Fish Stocking)
• Bruce Sambell (Aquaculture)
• Kaidon Anderson (Recreational Fishing)
• Chris Joseph (Water use and Community)
• Tanya Kirkegaard (Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island Communities)
• John Dexter (Fisheries Queensland)

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group met for the third time on 30 November 2022. The Chair welcomed and outlined the objectives of the meeting. Members gave an update from their respective sectors and/or regions. Fisheries Queensland provided a general update on freshwater, women in recreational fishing and compliance activities.

The working group discussed and provided preliminary advice on potential additions to the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme. It was noted five dams applied to be part of the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme. The working group identified that Lake Manchester had access issues and therefore, may have limited benefit to the SIPS. There were questions about Paradise Dam and the presence of vulnerable species. However, it was noted this dam and the catchment has been stocked for a significant period with minimal issues. In summary, Enoggera Dam Reservoir and Mount Morgan Dam were supported, Paradise Dam generally supported noting the ecological issues, while Ross River Dam needed to resolve some access issues. Lake Manchester was not supported due to access issues. The impoundments will now be considered by the SIPS working group before a recommendation is made to the executive for consideration before further regulatory processes can occur.

The working group discussed and provided advice on potential changes to the size and possession limits for Golden and Silver Perch. Two proposals discussed were an increase of the minimum size of golden perch from 30cm to 35cm and an increase of the possession limit of silver perch from two to five in major stocked impoundments. It was noted that currently most freshwater fish have the same size limit which makes it easier to understand the rules. The working group recommended that the biology of the species should dictate the minimum size limits. An increase to 35cm would allow more of the population to mature, increasing chances of individual fish breeding. The working group supported the increase of golden perch from 30 to 35cm based on the biology of the species. It was noted Fisheries Queensland would consult with fish stocking groups in western Queensland as part of further public consultation before any changes are considered.

For silver perch, the recommendation of the working group was to potentially increase the limit to five in certain stocked impoundments as they are put, grow, take fisheries. Outside of these impoundments the working group recommended silver perch be nil take, particularly in the Murray Darling Basin. It was noted further consultation would be undertaken before any changes are considered.

The working group noted the current management arrangements for non-indigenous fish and discussed potential clarifications for further consideration by Fisheries Queensland. It was noted there was some confusion in interpreting current arrangements for non-indigenous fish and fishers can struggle with what part of the regulation to apply at what time. The working group identified there needed to be increased education regarding this issue, especially in systems where there are vulnerable species. Natural range expansion also needed to be considered. It was noted legal stocking of some species outside of their natural range may also contribute to the misunderstanding of a species native range. The working group recommended a more detailed catchment-based approach is required to provide greater clarity based on risk.

Samantha Tonissoo and Luke Becker from the DAF Impact Assessment and Management team gave a presentation about waterway barrier works and the importance of fish passage. Luke and Sam both answered questions from members of the working group and agreed to follow up on some of the issues raised. The presentation was well received by the working group.

The working group noted the consultation draft policy for adding or removing seasonal closure exemptions for catadromous fish and discussed issues for further consideration by Fisheries Queensland. Several suggestions were made to improve the draft policy and provide greater clarity of the policy statement. It was noted there will be further opportunities to comment on this policy as part of broader consultation.

The working group raised a number of topics during general business to be discussed at future working group meetings including:

• Non-indigenous fish
• Continuation of discussion around waterway barrier works
• Pest fish internal working group update
• Future freshwater research priorities

The next working group meeting is tentatively scheduled for March 2023.

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members are:

Fisheries Queensland (Acting Chair- Peter Kind, A/Director Management and Reform – Sian Breen, Principal Fisheries Manager – John Dexter, Fisheries Manager (Freshwater) – Thomas Hart, Fisheries Officer (Freshwater) – Christelle Legrand, Senior Fisheries Manager – Tim Lucas), Agri Science Queensland (Andrew Norris), Biosecurity Queensland (Hayden Ferguson), Water Operators (Chris Delamont, David Roberts), Fish Stocking (Garry Fitzgerald, Ian Leighton, Joe Legrady), Recreational Fishing (Ross Williamson, Peter Delaforce, Kaidon Anderson), Water Use and Community (Chris Joseph), Aquaculture (Brett Smith, Bruce Sambell, Craig Cluff), Conservation (Merilyn Thomas), Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall), Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island Communities (Tanya Kirkegaard), Murray Darling Basin Authority (Greg Ringwood) Science and Research (Stephan Gabas).

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group met for the second time on 11 May 2022. The Chair welcomed and outlined the objectives of the meeting. Members gave a general introduction and update from their respective sectors and/or regions. Fisheries Queensland provided a general update on freshwater and compliance activities.

The working group discussed development of a list of ten priority items for further consideration by Fisheries Queensland. Working group members again raised the issue of a recreational fishing licence and recommended that this be considered as an option. Fisheries Queensland advised that there was no current policy position to introduce a recreational fishing licence and that there was no proposed extension to the SIP Scheme at this time to cover all fresh waters. Other issues discussed included compliance resourcing, the provision of Mary River Cod fingerlings, tagging of Mary River cod, pest fish research and response, including competition stocking of native species. The working group will further develop a list of priorities out of session.

Working Group members welcomed input from the Deputy Director General Mr Graeme Bolton and the Executive Director Mr Dallas D’Silva during this discussion. The working group was asked to review, discuss and provide advice on a proposal to allow bow fishing in Queensland. The working group advised that bow fishing would not be appropriate for many areas in Queensland and was unlikely to have the broad community support necessary to achieve regulatory change. The members advised that this method of fishing would not substantially increase the take of pest fish and could lead to off target impacts and the most efficient way to catch pest fish was still using current recreational fishing methods.

The working group was asked to discuss and provide advice on possible strategies to reduce fishing interactions with non-target species. The working group noted that the majority of anglers do the right thing and that the current rules are appropriate. The group noted that there may be a need to increase education and compliance through the use of social media and other communications methods. The group also noted that it may be worth looking at expanding the range of people who can retrieve non-compliant or abandoned fishing apparatus (e.g. as first nations rangers and dam operators).

Working Group members and Fisheries Queensland discussed possible future concepts for improving freshwater fishing in Queensland with the ED Fisheries with members expressing their appreciation for this engagement.

The working group discussed strategies to modernise freshwater fishing and stocking associations. Members noted that there were a broad range of issues that have impacted stocking groups, including ongoing support and coordination, and that this matter should be further explored at the stocking workshop to be held at Mackay in October. Members noted that there was no simple answer to the issues raised but advised that consideration should be given to assessing the appropriateness of the current model moving forward.

Dr Andrew Norris, Principal Scientist, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries provided an update on recent research into fish attracting structures for stocked impoundment fisheries. One project investigated the effectiveness of different types of fish attractors for Australian Bass and Golden Perch in impoundments to improve recreational angling experiences. Another project demonstrated an almost 3-fold increase in barramundi abundance at sites where fish attractors were installed. These results demonstrated that both species used the fish attractors as habitat and their abundance at fish attractor sites generally increased. The results were combined with studies from overseas to develop a best practice guideline for the use of fish attractors in Australian impoundments.

The working group raised a number of topics during general business to be discussed at future working group meetings including:

• future research priorities, with the working group to develop a list of gaps and priorities,
• a bag and size limit review for freshwater fish,
• new species for impoundment fisheries
• a hatchery accreditation and quality assurance scheme,
• a discussion on insurance, administration and administrative support mechanisms for stocking groups
• a discussion and presentation on native ornamental species as alternatives to non-native aquarium species
• a presentation on the Victorian model for freshwater research,
• a presentation on waterway barrier triggers and future planning
• Management of pest fish
• The Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme

The next working group meeting is tentatively scheduled for October 2022 after the freshwater workshop.

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members are:

Fisheries Queensland (Chair- Tony Ham, Director Management and Reform – Kimberly Foster, Principal Fisheries Manager – John Dexter, a/Fisheries Manager (Freshwater) – Thomas Hart), Agri Science Queensland (Andrew Norris), Biosecurity Queensland (Tim Lucas), Water Operators (Chris Delamont, David Roberts), Fish Stocking (Garry Fitzgerald, Ian Leighton, Joe Legrady), Recreational Fishing (Ross Williamson, Peter Delaforce, Kaidon Anderson), Water Use and Community (Chris Joseph), Aquaculture (Brett Smith, Bruce Sambell, Craig Cluff), Conservation (Merilyn Thomas), Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall), Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island Communities (Tanya Kirkegaard), Murray Darling Basin Authority (Greg Ringwood) Science and Research (Stephan Gabas).

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group met for the first time on 20 October 2021. The Chair introduced the group, it’s role and terms of reference. All members gave a general introduction and update from their respective sectors and/or regions.

Fisheries Queensland gave an overview of the freshwater sector and an update on current programs. Members were provided an opportunity to ask Fisheries Queensland and other members questions. The following topics were noted and discussed by members:

• compliance with fisheries regulations, particularly in remote and regional areas,
• signage and general advertisement and awareness of fisheries rules and pest fish,
• fingerling supplies of Mary River Cod,
• pest fish use,
• recreational fishing licence,
• vision for freshwater fishing,
• access to freshwater bed and banks for recreational fishers (s13A Land Act 1994),
• bow hunting in freshwater,
• attracting younger generations and refreshing memberships of fishing and stocking groups,
• the value of freshwater fisheries to Queensland,
• commercial hatchery code of best practice.

The working group reviewed and discussed potential options for the ongoing use of opera house traps in Queensland. It was noted that over the past 12 months, an increasing number of state jurisdictions had either banned or moved to further restrict the use of Opera House traps and other enclosed traps used for collecting yabbies and shrimp, and the department had received numerous requests to consider complementary arrangements in Queensland.

The working group noted that since new restrictions were introduced for freshwater traps in 2015 to reduce the incidence of bycatch of air breathing mammals there have been no substantiated reports of animals becoming trapped in compliant fishing traps or evidence (through compliance and clean up exercises) to suggest that significant bycatch issues remain in the fishery. However, there have been sporadic incidents involving the use of non-compliant apparatus and/or confusion over where different apparatus can be used.

The working group supported further investigation of the need for change including gathering data on air breathing non-target species capture and fate. It was noted that Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol maybe able collect enhanced data from clean up days if possible. The working group supported considering greater consistency in relation to opening size for closed traps throughout the state. Reviewing attendance and float rules, especially outside of impoundments, were also supported to help improve compliance. Ghost fishing of other aquatic fauna was also raised as an issue for further investigation.

It was noted that any proposed changes to current management arrangements in relation to the use of Opera House traps would require significant consultation with fishing tackle retailers, the recreational fishing sector and other interested stakeholders.

Dr Susannah Leahy presented to the Working Group regarding the outcomes of a study on the contribution of stocked fish to the commercial barramundi fishery in the dry tropics region. Key findings included that wild fish constituted the major proportion of catch (95% by number), and that stocked fish did not contribute significantly to the commercial catch. It was, however, found that stocked fish made a larger genetic contribution (parents and grand-parents). Access to freshwater was found to significantly enhance growth of juvenile barramundi.

Fisheries Queensland requested advice from the working group on the current management arrangements for Prescribed Barramundi Waterways, and the potential inclusion of waters above the Fitzroy Barrage on the list of Prescribed Barramundi Waterways. The working group were advised Fisheries Queensland’s current policy position is exemptions to the barramundi seasonal closure are only appropriate where there is no –or very limited –opportunity for downstream movement of spawning barramundi.

The working group was supportive of Fisheries Queensland developing a policy for adding and removing waterways for barramundi and bass closures for improved clarity about how prescribed waters are established. The Working Group reviewed the potential inclusion of waters above the Fitzroy Barrage and were not supportive of adding these waters to the Prescribed Barramundi Waterway list without further data. The working group noted that previous reports regarding the fish way on the Fitzroy Barrage indicated both upstream and downstream fish passage of barramundi. It was suggested that Dr Leahy’s methodology for identifying the natal origin and life history (salt and freshwater residency) may be particularly applicable for demonstrating (or otherwise) the lack of connectivity. More surveys would also be needed to conclusively demonstrate that the fishway on the Fitzroy Barrage does not pass juvenile and sub-adult barramundi.

The next working group meeting is tentatively scheduled for February 2022.

The Freshwater Fisheries Working Group members are:

Fisheries Queensland (Chair- Tony Ham, Director Management and Reform – Kimberly Foster, Principal Fisheries Manager – John Dexter, a/Fisheries Manager (Freshwater) – Thomas Hart), Agri Science Queensland (Andrew Norris), Biosecurity Queensland (Tim Lucas), Water Operators (Chris Delamont, David Roberts), Fish Stocking (Garry Fitzgerald, Ian Leighton, Joe Legrady), Recreational Fishing (Ross Williamson, Peter Delaforce, Kaidon Anderson), Water Use and Community (Chris Joseph), Aquaculture (Brett Smith, Bruce Sambell, Craig Cluff), Conservation (Merilyn Thomas), Pest Fish (Nicole Whysall), Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island Communities (Tanya Kirkegaard), Murray Darling Basin Authority (Greg Ringwood), Sciences (Stephan Gabas).