The state government says there will be zero tolerance for anyone caught using opera house nets to catch yabbies or crayfish this Queen’s Birthday long weekend.
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The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning says the nets can trap air-breathing animals, such as the platypus.
Data shows most discarded nets are found after public holidays and school holidays.
“It’s an upsetting experience for our forest and wildlife officers to find dead platypus or rakali in yabby nets that have been carelessly left behind,” senior wildlife investigator Mike Sverns said.
“We want to get this message out before the long weekend so that people can make the choice to only use platypus-safe alternatives, such as the hoop or open top lift nets.”
The use of opera house nets is illegal in, on or near public waters in Victoria, and from July 1 2019, this ban will extend to all Victorian waters.
Penalties for taking or being in possession of protected wildlife, or using prohibited equipment, can be as high as $38,000 in fines, as well as 24 months’ imprisonment.
To report crimes against wildlife call Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1800 333 000 or online.
