Busting invasive tilapia out of tweed waterways

TWEED Shire Council is partnering with Oz Fish to educate the community and raise awareness about the destructive effects of tilapia on the region’s waterways.

The annual Tilapia Buster event on Sunday, November 23, features a competition to catch the largest and greatest numbers of tilapia, educational talks, tips and tricks for catching tilapia, and lunch following the morning of fishing.

Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) is known for its rapid reproduction and the serious threat it poses to native fish and invertebrate populations.

The species degrade habitats by digging nests in riverbeds and uprooting aquatic plants that provide food and shelter for native species.

Tweed Shire Council project officer of waterways, Matthew Bloor, said tilapia were one of the worst invasive species globally.

“In NSW, they are only found in the Cudgen Lake system in the Tweed,” Bloor said.

“To restrict the spread of tilapia, it is illegal to possess, transport or return these fish to the waterways.

“Tilapia buster events combine education and real community action to minimise the harm invasive species cause to native species and their habitat.”

The event is open to all, and angling expertise is not required; however, sun-safe clothing and closed-toe shoes are necessary.

To register for the 7 am event at Cudgen Lake picnic area in Bogangar, visit ozfish.supporterhub.net.au/ events/tilapia-buster-tweed-november-2025