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| Help Protect Tasmania Against Aquatic Pests and DiseasesIf you see anything you think might be a marine pest or disease, please call the Disease Watch hotline 1800 675 888.
Bringing vessels and/or fishing equipment to Tasmania?
Cleaning of vessels
Cleaning of fishing equipment
Aquatic pests and diseases are bad news. For example, over 250 introduced marine plants and animals have hitch-hiked to Australian waters on vessels of all types from yachts to commercial ships. Getting rid of them once they are in is virtually impossible. Once established in our waters, pests and diseases can cause a range of environmental impacts and can also damage fishing, aquaculture and tourism industries.
There are many species of pests and diseases that could cause serious impacts if introduced to Tasmanian waters, however two species of particular concern are Didymo (also known as Rock Snot) and Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG). Other aquatic pests include Caulerpa taxifolia (also known as Aquarium caulerpa), Asian paddle crab, Chinese mitten crab and Colonial seasquirt. Perhaps the two highest priority species for Tasmania are: - Didymo is a freshwater alga not yet present in Australia. It takes just one cell in a single drop of water to be spread between waterways. The cells multiply quickly to form massive blooms that completely smother the stream or lake bed. These algal clumps adversely affect water quality, aquatic invertebrates and fish stocks, and are a hazard for hydro generation, irrigation and recreation. More information.
- AVG is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of abalone. The first reported case in Australia was off the Victorian coast in 2006. More information.
What to do
 Many people bring vessels (such as boats, canoes, kayaks and jetskis) and/or fishing equipment (including lifejackets, fishing rods, waders, nets, tackle boxes etc) into Tasmania to undertake a range of recreational opportunities. Vessels are most likely to enter Tasmania either by sea or on the Spirit of Tasmania. Fishing gear and equipment can enter Tasmania on board an incoming vessel or can be brought in by either aeroplane or on the Spirit of Tasmania.
 This web page contains practical advice on how to clean your vessel and fishing equipment prior to coming to Tasmania. Following these steps will mean that you will not be responsible for introducing aquatic pests and diseases into Tasmania’s marine and freshwater environments.
Prior to entry into Tasmania, or immediately after every trip when in Tasmanian waters, please CHECK, CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY your vessel.
Recommendations for trailer vessels (includes canoes, kayaks & jetskis) Target the areas shown in the diagram.
- Remember to CHECK your vessel and remove any weeds, marine organisms or sediment from your boat, trailer and gear and place in the bin NOT back in the water.
- After each trip CLEAN, DRAIN & DRY your boat, trailer and gear (including rope, anchor etc) with fresh water. Tiny eggs & plant spores can survive in a damp area for months.
In addition to the above, the following tip can help prevent the spread of marine pests and diseases (including abalone virus and didymo).- Using a mild detergent, disinfectant or soap, wash your vessel away from shore where it does not drain into the marine environment.
 Recommendations for non-trailer vessels
It is crucial to make sure your boat is clean before you move it. Follow these four steps and target the areas shown in the diagram.- Slip and clean your boat regularly, at least every year and anytime there is a build up of fouling.
- Select an antifouling paint suited to your boat, and apply it correctly following the manufacturers advice. Renew it when persistent fouling occurs.
- Treat internal seawater systems regularly. Flush with fresh water or an approved treatment.
- Dispose of sewage and bilge water at an approved pump out facility. Waste could contain marine pests, eggs or larvae.
 Fishing equipment includes any gear likely to get wet when undertaking fishing (such as fishing rods, waders, tackle boxes, hiking boots etc.). Prior to entry into Tasmania please CHECK, CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY your fishing equipment.CHECK all equipment and remove any weeds, marine organisms or sediment, and place in the bin NOT back in the water. CLEAN all equipment in freshwater. DRAIN water from any equipment as required and leave to DRY in direct sunlight (note that in some situations it may take several days to dry completely).  In addition to the above, the following tip can help prevent the spread of all marine pests and diseases and is particularly useful for treating porous equipment such as hiking boots, soft foam or cork rod handles and felt soled waders.
- Using a mild detergent, disinfectant or soap, wash equipment away from shore where it does not drain into the marine environment.
ALERT: Note it is an offence to bring live bait into Tasmania
Previous experience has shown that once introduced, aquatic pests and diseases can be difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate. Early warning provides managers with the best chance to mount an effective response. If you see anything you think might be a marine pest or disease, please call the Disease Watch hotline 1800 675 888.
Illustrations on this page by Brett Littleton
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