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In the world of fisheries management, science and practicality should go hand in hand. Unfortunately, recent actions by the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (DPI) suggest that common sense has been thrown overboard. The case of the Blue Groper—a beloved and protected species in NSW—highlights just how out of touch the state’s fisheries management has become.
A Protected Species Under Threat
The Eastern Blue Groper (Achoerodus viridis) has been a protected species in NSW since the 1960s, with spearfishing banned to ensure its survival. These iconic fish, known for their vibrant blue coloration and curious nature, play a vital role in maintaining the health of reef ecosystems by preying on sea urchins, crabs, and other invertebrates. However, last year, a spearfisher illegally killed a Blue Groper, sparking public outrage and prompting the DPI to impose a blanket ban on the catch and take of all Blue Groper.
While the intention to protect the species is commendable, the DPI’s decision was made without conducting proper scientific studies to assess the population’s health. Instead, the department relied on flawed data from a study that has since been widely criticized by recreational fishers, marine experts, and the broader community.
The Pilchard Problem
The study in question, conducted between 2008 and 2023, used baited underwater cameras to estimate Blue Groper populations. Sounds reasonable, right? Not so fast. The bait used was pilchards—a type of fish that Blue Groper do not naturally eat. As any seasoned fisher or marine biologist will tell you, Blue Groper primarily feed on crabs, prawns, sea urchins, and other invertebrates. Using pilchards as bait is akin to trying to attract lions with banana leaves, as one commenter aptly put it.
This methodological flaw raises serious questions about the accuracy of the study’s findings, which suggested a 50% decline in Blue Groper numbers in shallow waters between Taree and Shellharbour. If the bait used doesn’t align with the species’ natural diet, how can the results be trusted? It’s no wonder that many have dismissed the study as more of a “children’s fairy tale” than credible science.
A Pattern of Poor Management
The Blue Groper debacle is just the latest example of NSW’s mismanagement of its fisheries. Critics argue that the DPI is more interested in virtue signaling than implementing evidence-based policies. For instance, the department has been accused of using similarly flawed methods to assess grey nurse shark populations and blaming recreational fishers for the failure of snapper stocks to recover in sanctuary zones.
The recent decision to ban Blue Groper fishing also ignores broader environmental factors. As one commenter pointed out, the east coast experienced severe flooding between 2018 and 2022 due to back-to-back La Niña events. These conditions likely disrupted coastal ecosystems, pushing fish populations—including Blue Groper—to deeper offshore reefs where salinity levels were more stable. Yet, the DPI’s study failed to account for this, further undermining its credibility.
A Call for Accountability
The Hon. Tara Moriarty, MLC, and other officials responsible for fisheries management in NSW must be held accountable for these missteps. The recreational fishing community, which contributes significantly to the state’s economy, deserves better than poorly designed studies and knee-jerk regulations. As one frustrated fisher noted, “My fishing licence renewal turned up the other day, straight in the bin it went.” This sentiment is shared by many who feel that their voices—and their knowledge—are being ignored.
It’s time for the DPI to ditch the “woke crap” and start listening to those who know the waters best: the fishers, divers, and marine enthusiasts who have spent decades observing and interacting with these ecosystems. Proper science, transparency, and collaboration are essential if we are to protect species like the Blue Groper without alienating the communities that care about them.
Moving Forward
The Blue Groper is a symbol of NSW’s rich marine heritage, and its protection should be a priority. However, this protection must be based on sound science and practical knowledge, not flawed studies and bureaucratic incompetence. The DPI must revisit its approach to fisheries management, engage with stakeholders, and ensure that future decisions are grounded in reality—not fairy tales.
As one commenter aptly put it, “It’s time to stand up and fight to save what’s left.” Let’s hope that NSW’s fisheries management can rise to the challenge before it’s too late.
