Establishing a shellfish reef in and around the Mornington Peninsula, specifically between Mornington and Mount Eliza, has created an ecosystem that ensures the ongoing health and resilience of fish communities and water quality.
The Port Phillip Community Shellfish Reef project has been managed by Melbourne Water, with funding through the Australian Government’s Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project, to create a shellfish reef using recycled shell substrate.
As one of the world’s most threatened marine habitats, shellfish reefs play a critical role in fish colonisation and improving fish populations.
“Shellfish reefs were once widespread across Port Phillip Bay. Since settlement, we’ve probably lost more than 95 per cent of them. That makes the project a critical one,” Andrew Morrison, Melbourne Water Senior Asset Planner – Land and Catchments, said.
“Some straightforward measures we’ve been taking as part of this project is to recycle the shellfish discarded through the restaurant industry. We’re returning this to Port Phillip Bay to help form the foundation of shellfish reef colonisation. This will help increase and improve the population of native fish.”
The establishment of a shellfish reef was supported in partnership with OzFish as well as local recreational fishers. They were involved in educational and training events. Hence, they understood the importance of the project and contributed to its formation.
“Having recreational fishers participate in restoring these important ecosystems, we’re really enhancing that long-term stewardship for these areas, and hopefully, they’ll continue to help support a sustainable recreational fishing industry,” Morrison added.
As a catchment management authority (CMA), Melbourne Water is responsible for delivering land, water and biodiversity programs that enhance and protect the environment and support thriving communities in the Port Phillip and Westernport catchments. The Port Phillip Community Shellfish Reef project falls under this CMA plan.
This project was supported with funding from the Australian Government in partnership with OzFish and the local community.
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