Changes to the NSW Noxious Fish List

[Member]

Changes to the NSW Noxious Fish List

On 17 December 2010, NSW introduced further changes to the NSW Noxious Fish List as part of a consistent approach to the management of noxious fish throughout Australia. The NSW Noxious Fish List now includes an additional 67 listings that have been agreed nationally as having a high-risk pest potential. In addition, the NSW government has listed redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis) as a Class 1 noxious fish.

Why redfin perch?
In 2009 Industry & Investment (I&I) NSW consulted with the ornamental fish industry and hobbyist representatives in NSW regarding a list of proposed noxious species (including redfin perch), and there was general support to list this species as noxious. I&I NSW scientific staff also endorse the listing of redfin perch as noxious, as it poses a significant threat to native species, particularly as it is a known carrier of Epizootic Haematopoietic Necrosis Virus (EHNV), which can have detrimental impacts upon native fish species.
What does this listing of redfin perch mean?
Redfin perch has been listed as a Class 1 noxious fish species in NSW. Although these changes have already taken place, a six month advisory period is being provided to allow all stakeholders to comply with the new rules, which will be enforced from 1 July 2011.
Class 1 noxious fish species are totally banned in NSW. There are heavy penalties for possessing, selling or importing them (up to $55,000 for an individual or $110,000 for a corporation). Fisheries Officers may also seize and destroy any Class 1 noxious fish. It is illegal to be in possession of a live Class 1 noxious fish such as redfin.

If redfin are caught by recreational anglers, I&I NSW encourages them to be retained and utilised or disposed of appropriately, and that they are not returned to the water. It is not an offence to be in possession of a dead redfin which has been caught to take home.
I&I NSW notes some anglers, especially those near the Victorian border, target redfin. The noxious listing does not affect this - redfin can still be targeted and caught.

If you have any questions or would like further information please see http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/pests-diseases/freshwater-pests/ornamental-fish or contact the Aquatic Biosecurity Unit on 02 4982 1232.

Source: NSW CFA

[Member]

Good to see, about time. Though why they relisted Carp as class 3 is pretty ridiculous 

[Member]

Interesting classifications, Also interesting that they allow you to take pest species for the table.

[Member]

Yes interesting alright, catch and release of Carp legal, very hard to believe.
Soon we will see dedicated Carp specialist types, and Carp fisheries established on private property.
A giant step backwards IMHO.

cheers
Steve

[Member]

Yes interesting alright, catch and release of Carp legal, very hard to believe.
Soon we will see dedicated Carp specialist types, and Carp fisheries established on private property.
A giant step backwards IMHO.

cheers
Steve

Have it on a fishing DVD qoute "There are so many carp in this lake that it doesnt matter if you let them go" ...... Makes my blood boil , Since when has that attitude been adopted in australia to be so laid back and casual about a noxious pest ?

Steve

[Member]

Since when has that attitude been adopted in australia to be so laid back and casual about a noxious pest ?

Steve

Since Brown Trout were introduced into Australia in 1864.