This information outlines our proposals for the reserve, what it actually is, and what the benefits will be
Our primary aim is to have an area of water ideally from just south of Rocky Point to north of Chinamans Beach, Mosman declared by the New South Wales government as an aquatic reserve. The exact area that we will propose to government is the subject of ongoing community consultation. Our initial proposed area is shown on the left
Importantly our proposed area does not include water south of Rocky Point and so will not impact the use of moorings in Balmoral Beach or fishing from places like the Balmoral Wharf.
An aquatic reserve is designated aquatic region to protect, preserve and encourage marine life now and for future generations. NSW currently has 12 aquatic reserves.
Under the NSW Marine Estate Management Act 2015, aquatic reserves are declared by the NSW government to conserve biological diversity. Our model is inspired by successful reserves like Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly which is a "no-take" zone protecting marine life while allowing for a range of recreational activities. We propose similar protections:
No extractive activities (including fishing, spearfishing) of marine life. See “The benefits of an aquatic reserve.
Sustainable boating (mooring away from seagrass or in water more than 8m deep)
Other recreation activities in the reserve such as swimming, snorkelling, swimming, diving, kayaking, and sailing are permitted in an aquatic reserve, but of course, there will be more marine life to enjoy.
For more information about NSW aquatic reserves click here https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/marine-protected-areas/aquatic-reserves
Declaring the area in aquatic reserve will protect marine life which will:
Increase marine life diversity will also provide enhanced opportunities for education experiences and increased opportunities for scientific research.
Increase opportunities for fishing on the edges of the marine reserve - this is well proven: