The control area restricting aquatic activities at Cape Bridgewater has been lifted.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The control area prohibiting some forms of fishing and boating off the coast of Cape Nelson was put in place by Agriculture Victoria and the Victorian Fisheries Authority in May following a detection of abalone infected with Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG).
Victoria's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, said the orders were in place to prevent people unknowingly spreading the virus on boats and equipment while surveillance was undertaken in order to better understand the levels of disease that was present.
"The control area spanned from a kilometre west of Cape Bridgewater Lookout to Cape Grant in the east," Dr Cooke said.
"While abalone disease can no longer be termed as exotic to south-west Victoria, all aquatic users must help to minimise the risk of pests and diseases spreading by following the steps of check, clean and dry.
"Check all vessels, fishing, diving and surfing equipment and remove anything including water, sand and seaweed. Also, remember to check your catch for signs of disease."
"Clean boats at home or at a commercial carwash. Wash wetsuits, fishing and diving equipment with fresh, soapy water."
"Dry all boating, fishing and diving equipment completely before heading out into the water again."
"Using abalone - including gut - as bait is now prohibited, as is disposing of abalone shell or gut back into the ocean."
A Fisheries Notice preventing fishing near Narrawong remains in place in the area of a nearby aquaculture farm.
Western Abalone Divers Association executive officer Harry Peeters said divers were in the water assessing the situation on Wednesday.
Abalone viral ganglioneuritis is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of abalone and results in a curling of the foot and swelling of the mouth, leading to weakness and death of abalone.
Up to 90 percent of abalone with the disease will die. Abalone virus is not a risk to human health.
The state government and industry are working towards transitioning to a disease management model.
IN OTHER NEWS:
- Portland records three new COVID-19 cases
- Midfield couldn't produce policy documents after worker death: Informant
- Youngest residents say thanks to frontline workers making biggest impact
- Youth and man charged over alleged violent incident captured on police camera
- Restrictions forces change to tri club's season opener
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.standard.net.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines and newsletters.
- Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
- Tap here to open our Google News page.
- Join our Courts and Crime Facebook group and our dedicated Sport Facebook group
- Subscribe