[Forum] I would like to correct the record with regard to your article “Fishing bans in place around Budgewoi Creek and Lake”, published in the Wyong Regional Chronicle, edition 139.
The article incorrectly implies fishing bans are in place due to investigations into the presence of PFAS in the area. There are no fishing bans in place because of PFAS investigations. There are long-standing closures on net fishing in Budgewoi Creek and its tributaries, to limit commercial and recreational fishing in the area, and there is a seasonal nighttime closure in place for Budgewoi Lake between May and August each year, to protect harvesting of juvenile fish species.
Sampling of aquatic biota in the area is currently being undertaken by Snowy Hydro Limited, the operator of the Colongra Power Station, to assess PFAS concentrations. This will assist the NSW Government in determining if any precautionary dietary advice is needed for high consumers of seafood from the lakes. Results are not yet available and the community will be informed if any precautions are required. Thank you for the opportunity to clarify this matter.
Email, May 3 Dr Geoff Allan, Deputy Director General, NSW DPI Fisheries