Ten drones have been deployed around Queensland to help monitor fisheries resources.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers in the Gulf of Carpentaria are using a drone to extend their surveillance reach, for instance, fisheries minister Mark Furner says.
“By its nature, Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) field work can be hazardous and officers at times operate in difficult and often isolated environments,” he says.
“The new drone, based in Karumba, will allow Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers to monitor marine habitats and fishing operations across the gulf from a distance.
“Ten drones have been deployed around the state, including to the Gold Coast, Warwick, Noosa, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and in Brisbane, with trained pilots in each of these locations.”
Drone footage could be used to gather intelligence, prosecute people who break the rules and support training of the Marine Animal Rescue Teams, Furner says.
“Already this year, the total number of fines and prosecutions for fisheries offences in the Karumba district has risen to 24 and more than $24,000 in fines.
“Equipment like these drones will help QBFP officers protect fish stocks in the Gulf for our children and grandchildren.”
Furner says the QBFP monitored the compliance of almost one million recreational fishers and 1700 commercial fishing licence holders state-wide.
“Our crews operate cover 7000 kilometres of coastline and hundreds of inland fishing areas from far western Queensland to offshore waters 200 nautical miles to sea.
“It’s a huge task and we’re always looking at more efficient, safer ways for our officers to go about their business.”
