CONGRATULATIONS TO BARRA2BILLFISH FOR ACHIEVING ECOTOURISM CERTIFICATION!
Congratulations to Barra2Billfish for achieving Ecotourism certification on their fishing charters in the Whitsunday Region, QLD.
The Whitsunday Region of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is a world heritage site which is renowned for its reefs, rich biodiversity and diverse range of fish species, thus is an area where conservation is heavily reliant on all tour operators acting sustainably.
Barra2Billfish is a local, family-run business with experienced skipper and guide Richard Draper providing fishing charters in local estuaries and among the stunning Whitsunday Islands. The company offers full day tours running from Airlie Beach, providing pick up and drop off and quality tackle (rods, reels, lures etc.). Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and coffee/tea are also provided so that guests can enjoy a stress-free day, knowing they will be well looked after.
Barra2Billfish are raising community awareness of sustainable fishing, encouraging anglers and guests to be environmentally friendly. The company thrives on ensuring that guests enjoy their experience in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and also develop an understanding of sustainable practices and their application.
Sustainable fishing practices are implemented by a range of strategies including catch and release, using local bait, identifying and avoiding threatened species, protecting fish stocks, using ethical practice and participating in monitoring activities.
With the benefit of small tour group sizes (up to six people), Barra2Billfish provides a personal fishing experience, allowing greater interaction with the guide to learn more about sustainable fishing.
Low environmental impact is also achieved through careful waste management by ensuring all waste is returned to the mainland and disposed of responsibly. Emission reduction is managed by using equipment that adheres to the government requirements.
Barra2Billfish contribute to the conservation objectives of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, ensuring there is no long term environmental impact. We are very excited that Barra2Billfish have achieved Ecotourism for their fishing charters and welcome them to the Ecotourism Australia community!
For more information on Barra2Billfish, visit their website or Facebook page.
[Photos from Barra2Billfish website and Facebook]