Campaign aims to slow the spread of marine pests

MORE than two-thirds of water users are unaware of the threat of marine pests, according to a recent survey by Parks Victoria.

The lack of awareness about marine pests has led to Parks Victoria urging people to remember to “Check, Clean and Dry” before hitting the water.

A survey of recreational marine users found 70 per cent knew little or nothing about marine pests and that they can be spread by all kinds of boats large and small, other watercraft, and any equipment used in marine areas such as wetsuits, diving gear, and toys.

The findings are particularly worrying given that one in three watercraft users travel to new locations on each trip, potentially spreading the pests to more areas.

Marine pests, such as the northern Pacific seastar and Japanese kelp (also known as wakame), are highly invasive animals and plants that cause significant damage to marine ecosystems through predation or competition with native species.

They reproduce quickly and once established are virtually impossible to eradicate, which has occurred in some parts of Port Phillip Bay.

The risk of marine pests spreading can be dramatically reduced with a three-step process: • Check your vessel and marine equipment for marine pests frequently and remove if found • Clean with fresh water to thoroughly wash down
boats, other watercraft, fishing gear, wetsuits, water toys, and other marine equipment after use, and • Dry boats and marine equipment thoroughly before moving to other areas, especially if leaving Port Phillip Bay.

Around-the-world sailor Jessica Watson and fishing expert Paul Worsteling, have joined the call to Check, Clean and Dry, by appearing in an online video campaign along with Parks Victoria’s chief conservation scientist Dr Mark Norman.

“Victoria’s marine waters have incredible biodiversity, supporting more than 12,000 species of plants and animals, 90 per cent of which are found nowhere else in the world, it’s vital we protect these natural assets,” Mr Norman said.

“Marine pests are highly invasive animals and plants, usually from other parts of the world that have THE City of Greater Geelong’s aquatic centres will host free Family Fun Days over the coming months.

Kardinia Aquatic Centre in South Geelong and Splashdown in Whittington will offer plenty of free activities, including free swimming, pirate-themed games, prizes and giveaways, face painting, plus a visit from the Webstar Swim School mascot.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood said the free family fun days were a great chance to take the kids along for an enjoyable day out and experience everything these pools had to offer.

“Kardinia and Splashdown are all fantastic aquatic centres, with programs and a range of facilities for all ages and abilities,” Cr Harwood said.

“We’re proud of these centres, and we love seeing them full of happy families keeping active and engaged in the community.”

The free events provide a great way for families check out the centres and the programs on offer for 2019.

They also focus on encouraging kids to keep active, enjoy swimming and learn how to be safe around water.

Please remember children should be supervised at all times in and around pool areas.

The free Family Fun Days are at Kardinia Aquatic Centre on Saturday February 2 between 12pm and 3pm, and Splashdown on Saturday March 2 between 12pm and 3pm.

For more information visit geelongaustralia.com.au/ssl.

become established in Victoria and cause significant harm to the health of marine ecosystems.”

More information about marine pests and how their spread can be prevented is available at parkweb.vic.gov.au, and people are encouraged to phone 136 186 to report any sightings.