Autonomous Bluebottle vessels to patrol Mid North Coast marine parks over Australia Day long weekend

UNMANNED marine surveillance vessels known as Bluebottles will patrol Marine Parks between Coffs Harbour and Camden Haven over the Australia Day long weekend.

The deployment aims to deter and detect illegal fishing activity in protected Green Zones along the Mid North Coast.

Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer said the vessels will focus on detecting illegal fishing activity in Green Zones between the Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Cod Grounds Marine Park off the coast of Dunbogan.

“The surveillance measures help protect the plants and animal species in areas like the Cod Grounds Marine Park, which is home to many fish species, including the endangered east coast grey nurse shark, as well as squid, crabs and lobsters,” Mr Dwyer said.

Mr Dwyer said it was essential that recreational and commercial fishers clearly understand where no take zones are located before heading out on the water.

“It is vitally important that fishers know exactly where Green Zones are located along our coastline. The most effective ways to do that is by checking Government Marine Park maps which show Green Zones boundaries or by using a fishing or marine navigation app that utilise zoning layers,” he said.

He said illegal fishing undermines conservation outcomes and threatens the long term health of marine ecosystems.

“Stopping illegal fishing in Green Zones is critically important to marine conservation efforts, ecosystem health and the long-term sustainability of surrounding fisheries,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Illegal fishing directly undermines the purpose of these protected areas, which are designed as safe havens where marine life can recover and thrive.”

Penalties for breaching Green Zones or other no take areas can be significant with fines of up to $22,000 per breach and potential seizure of catch, fishing gear and vehicles.

The 22-foot Bluebottles resemble small yachts and operate using renewable energy generated by solar, wind and wave power.

Each vessel carries advanced technology, including 360 degree day and night infrared cameras, radar and satellite communications.

The vessels can operate autonomously for months at a time, allowing authorities to monitor designated marine areas continuously without the need for onboard crew.

Suspicious or illegal activity in Australian Marine Parks can be reported via the Marine Compliance Hotline on 1800 852 975 or by email at marine.compliance@environment.gov.au.