TILAPIA BUSTERS TO HELP OUR WATERWAYS

MOST of us are aware of the destruction introduced species like the cane toad have had on our environment above the water, but under the water introduced species are also having a devastating effect on our local ecosystem.

One species that Coasters are fighting against is the Tilapia.

Mozambique Tilapia (Mozambique mouth-brooder) is an introduced fish that competes with our native species, damages aquatic plants and increases water turbidity (cloudiness).

This is why Tilapia are de- Gold back clared noxious in Queensland under the Fisheries Act 1994 (Fisheries Regulation 2008).

It is unlawful to have noxious fish (alive or dead) in your possession, or to use them as bait, and it is illegal to place or release noxious fish (alive or dead) into Queensland waterways.

Penalties of up to $200,000 may apply. On November 4 Gold Coast fishing fanatics are holding the Tilapia Busters tournament.

There are thousand of dollars of prizes up for grabs and not only will you have fun, you’ll help the environment.

After the rain there’s plenty of muddies around. My little girl Coralie scored this great one on Wednesday. While most were watching the V8s, Brooke Frecklington landed this flattie at the pin. Gold Coaster Mimi Souvanthong scored her PB flathead...