Jervis Bay Marine Park Alliance Newsletter

Welcome

We are pleased to share the latest updates from the Jervis Bay Marine Park Alliance (JBMPA), highlighting recent achievements, ongoing monitoring, and opportunities for community action to help protect our unique marine environment.

Booderee National Park Draft Management Plan (2026–2036)

A submission by JBMPA has been completed in reference to Booderee National Park Draft Management Plan 2026–2036.

This draft plan outlines a long-term vision for the protection and sustainable management of the Booderee Marine Park. We thank everyone who contributed their time, knowledge, and passion to this important work. Part of our submission requested the extension of a no-take zone from Bowen Island to Murray’s boat ramp. As Murray’s Beach is a highly used area by swimmers and snorkellers all year round, burleying and fishing in the same area are a threat to everyone’s safety.

Further updates on consultation and next steps will be shared as they become available.

Jervis Bay Mussel Farm

According to CEO Scott Walter, South Coast Mariculture is utilising Jervis Bay mussels to produce pet food supplements and shell grit as the mussel quality is not high enough for human consumption. The original Development Application was to provide essential food not pet food. We will continue to follow developments closely and share updates with our community.

Jervis Bay's mussel farm shifts its strategy from gourmet food to animal health products. But are pet supplements worth risking Jervis Bay Marine Park's unique ecology? by Cat Holloway

Read the full story from Spark Shoalhaven: https://www.catholloway.com/from-shellfish-to-shell-grit-the-bitter-reality-behind-marine-park-mariculture-dream/

South Coast Mariculture Monitoring Update

South Coast Mariculture is currently being monitored by the Department of Planning and the DPI through a genetics-based mussel spat monitoring program. Results from this monitoring are expected soon and will provide a valuable insight into environmental impacts and sustainability considerations about harvesting and growing mussels in a Marine Park.

Take Action: Blue Groper Petition

A petition led by the Nature Coast Marine Group advocating for the ongoing protection of

Blue Groper populations is now available online.

Community voices are essential in shaping marine policy—please consider supporting this initiative and sharing it with others.

NSW government will be going to the polls in March 2027 so responding and protecting our Blue Groper is important now before it is too late. The amnesty needs to be in place permanently.

www.ncmg.org.au/blue-groper

Community Advocacy: Fishing Petition

Lisa Butler, Member of Parliament, has also launched a petition relating to fishing near popular beaches.

lizabutler.au/campaigns-and-projects/petitions/shark-fishing-near-popular-beaches/

We encourage community members to stay informed and participate in discussions that affect the future of our Jervis Bay Marine Park. A link to the petition is included for those who wish to learn more or get involved.

Your involvement makes a difference. Whether through participation, advocacy, or simply staying informed, our collective efforts help protect the extraordinary marine life and ecosystems of Jervis Bay.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Jervis Bay Marine Park Alliance committee