Terranora Neglect

Tourist boat activities being conducted daily in the Terranora system are environmentally damaging and are not permitted elsewhere in Australia. Clients, numbering up to 100 are permitted to disembark onto extremely sensitive mud and sand flats, salt marsh and sea grass beds to experience "getting mud between your toes" - as advertised through the internet. NSW Fisheries unbelievably permits each tourist boat to carry between 30-40 yabbie pumps so that the tourists can experience the thrill of pumping yabbies - again not permitted anywhere else in Australia. Although the physical pumping of the yabbies on such a scale is damaging to the habitat it is the "trampling" of feet that is the cause of most damage.

To permit this activity is totally irresponsible and reflects a disrespect of the environment. Currently DPI have engaged a scientist to evaluate the impact of this activity. Senator Jan Barham has tabled this activity twice on the floor of Parliament. Ass Professor Daryl McPhee from the Environmental Faculty of Bond University has visited the area of concern and has been scathing of the continuation of the activity. Currently EDO have become involved and are providing assistance to the concerned residents and fishing clubs who have voiced their disgust.

Unfortunately money and politics are involved which can over ride environmental responsibilities. Hopefully this will not be the case on the Tweed.

My name is John Clarke 42 Jacaranda Av West Tweed. I have in the past been an advisor to State Ministers on Marine Parks, Recreational Fishing and National Parks and Wild Life. The neglect of the Terranora habitat and ultimately the Tweed River is blatantly irresponsible and must be addressed. Photos are available on request. Thankyou for the opportunity to voice my opinion