The Australian Government is investing $1.5 million to restore shellfish reefs in Moreton Bay, Queensland. The project will help improve water quality and support marine life.
Funding will support OzFish Unlimited to restore reefs at the Port of Brisbane, Peel Island and Fisher’s Lease over the next 2 years. Shellfish reefs have declined due to past harvesting, coastal development, disease and poor water quality.
The project will:
- place 10,000 Robust Oyster Baskets (ROBs) in Moreton Bay
- create new habitat for oysters, fish and other marine life
- improve water quality through natural filtering
- involve local volunteers in reef work.
ROBs give young oysters a safe place to grow. The baskets will be made using recycled shells from Brisbane seafood businesses. The shells will be cleaned and treated before use to meet biosecurity rules.
Oysters help keep water clean by filtering small particles as they feed. One oyster can filter more than 100 litres of water each day, which helps keep the bay healthy.
The project is funded through the Local Environmental Projects Program, which supports local action to protect Australia’s environment and help communities care for nature.
