Department of Primary Industries and Regions, South Australia (PIRSA), Media Release, 14 September 2021

Precautionary fishing restrictions in waters immediately adjacent to Port Pirie have been extended for a further 12 months.

There is no change to the restrictions which have been in place for the past year, which allow recreational fishers to catch and release fish, but prohibit the taking of crabs, fish and shellfish for consumption from designated areas around Port Pirie Harbour.

Put in place in September 2020 after the release of a scientific study into heavy metals in sediment in the area, the restrictions have been extended for another year while SA Health complete an in-depth analysis of sample results and consider the public health implications.

Results from the testing to date can be reviewed on the SA Health website at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au

Heavy metals in the sediment is a legacy of decades of industrial activity, and the Government is focused on addressing this with Nyrstar, local government and the community.

The Port Pirie Regional Council and the Mount Remarkable Council and the Port Pirie community are leading the way in enhancing the liveability and opportunities in the Port Pirie region. The two councils have been briefed on the test results and the recommendation by SA Health to continue the fishing restrictions.

The restrictions impact recreational fishing only.

Consumers can continue to have confidence in South Australia’s quality seafood product as commercial fishing does not occur in this specified region. Commercial fisheries are also supported by an ongoing program of National Residue Survey testing.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions Executive Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Gavin Begg said the extension of the restrictions was a precautionary step and fishers can find further information via the SA Fishing Guide app or at pir.sa.gov.au/fishing

Parents of children living in Port Pirie are encouraged to engage with the Port Pirie Environmental Health Centre for more information about how to reduce exposure to lead (8638 4100).

Any suspicious or illegal fishing activity can be reported to the 24-hour Fishwatch number on 1800 065 522. Callers can choose to remain anonymous.

The zones (which remain unchanged) are:

Zone 1 – waters south and west of Weeroona Island Boat Ramp and including First Creek, Second Creek and Port Pirie River.

• all species, including all molluscs, crustaceans and fish, must not be taken from this area. Catch and release fishing is permitted.

Zone 2 – waters in the Port Germein area, extending north and west from Weerona Island Boat Ramp.

• bivalve molluscs, e.g. oysters, mussels, scallops and razorfish, must not be taken from this area.