Overfishing (Community Outreach)

Working with fishers to support sustainable sea-cucumber harvesting

University researchers work with the Queensland sea-cucumber fishery to improve understanding of commercially harvested populations on the Great Barrier Reef. The profile of marine scientist Kristen McSpadden explains how collaboration with fishers incorporates local knowledge, addresses gaps in fisheries data and supports decisions about long-term sustainability.

In October 2025, researchers including University of Newcastle scientists published findings on using remotely operated underwater vehicles and aerial drones to monitor sea-cucumber populations. Improved surveys can help assess harvested stocks and inform responsible fisheries management.

^{University of Newcastle marine researcher Kristen McSpadden undertaking coral-reef fieldwork. Image credit: Dr Vincent Raoult.}

Sharing evidence with the public about reef food webs

In April 2025, the University reported research led by PhD candidate Jeremy Day on blue groper, pink snapper and long-spined sea urchins in the Great Southern Reef. The study found that the large fish examined rarely consumed long-spined urchins, challenging assumptions about predator loss and the growth of urchin barrens. The research report explains why understanding these food-web relationships matters for future reef and fisheries management.

Recreational fishers contributed fish specimens used in the study, while the University made the findings accessible to a wider audience. This knowledge sharing helps inform discussion of ecosystem impacts and responsible marine management; the study does not, by itself, establish that overfishing caused the urchin-barren problem.

Community awareness and responsible fishing on the Central Coast

In April–May 2025, University of Newcastle students supported Central Coast Council’s Carp to Croc initiative, a community fishing programme focused on the impacts of invasive European carp and the protection of native aquatic ecosystems. The Council-led launch included public education about carp impacts and sustainable fishing practices. A total of 101 participants removed 296 carp, while University students helped collect tissue samples from 40 fish for food-web research. The programme connected community participation and environmental learning with evidence that can inform waterway management.

Earlier partnerships reducing harmful fishing impacts

The University has also participated in practical research to reduce the unintended capture of juvenile fish and crabs. Earlier work with NSW fisheries researchers, Hunter Local Land Services and commercial fishers at Wallis Lake investigated escape gaps and trap designs that improve the release of undersized animals. This provides an example of fisheries science being translated into less damaging fishing methods; the project predates the 2025 reporting period.

At the free Fishers for Fish Habitat Forum in November 2022, University researcher Associate Professor Troy Gaston joined fishing and conservation stakeholders to exchange knowledge about fish habitats and sustainable fisheries. The University event announcement and the University’s earlier news coverage document this direct engagement with community practitioners.

Through accessible fisheries research and engagement with fishers, the University supports informed approaches to protecting marine ecosystems. This work helps communities understand fishing impacts and the value of responsible harvesting practices.