The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is calling for tenders to design and build a new artificial reef that will enhance the recreational fishing experience for anglers in the Tweed by creating a new high quality fishing location just off the coast.
Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the artificial reef is one of a series being built along the NSW coast using funds from the Recreational Fishing Trust, which have been very popular with recreational fishers.
“Artificial reefs enhance opportunities for anglers by creating habitats for fish and aquatic organisms,” Mr Provest said.
“Reefs have already been installed off Sydney, South Sydney, the Shoalhaven, Port Macquarie, Merimbula, Newcastle and Wollongong, with the Tweed due for completion mid-2020 and Batemans Bay by the end of 2020.
“Based on previous experience the Tweed artificial reef will rapidly accumulate a diverse range of fish.
It is expected to provide habitat for sought after species including kingfish, cobia, trevally, snapper, mulloway and mackerel.”
The artificial reef is proposed to be located approximately just over 7 kilometres south of the Tweed River entrance, 2.5 kilometres off the coast in approximately 25 metres water depth.
The scope of works includes the design, manufacture, transport and deployment of a multi-component reef comprising a main reef module up to 10 metres in height, surrounded by clusters of smaller satellite reef modules.
“The reefs are engineered to last many decades, ensuring that anglers in the Tweed will be enjoying the benefits for many years to come,” Mr Provest said.
Tenders are open until 27 November and further information can be found by visiting the NSW Government e-tendering website at tenders.nsw.gov.au.