Fishos barred for one year

TWO commercial anglers have been banned from fishing or collecting in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park for a year.

The 12- month ban was issued after the line fishermen were convicted of multiple offences within 10 years.

Failure to comply with the ban, which spans 344,400sq km, could result in further prosecution and fines of up to $ 105,000.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority field management director Richard Quincey said: “This penalty emphasises the importance that’s placed on protecting notake areas and the seriousness of these illegal fishing offences.

“Fishers who intentionally ignore no- take zone rules are letting down honest fishers and pose an unacceptable threat to the Reef.”

Reports of suspected illegal activity can be made anonymously 24 hours a day on 1800 380 048 or online.