August 21, 2013
The Greens are calling for the outlawing of crab pots in freshwater creeks following the deaths of at least seven platypuses near Caboolture.
Green candidate for Longman Dr Helen Fairweather said people would be horrified to learn that so many platypuses had drowned after becoming trapped in crab pots.
“Traps like these must be outlawed in all freshwater streams in Queensland.”
Greens Senate candidate Adam Stone said all other Australian states ban crab or crayfish pots in freshwater creeks.
“This complete disregard for our native wildlife demonstrates the critical need to get Greens into Parliament,” he said.
“Queensland seems unwilling or unable to enact this law so the Federal Government needs to step up and show leadership.”
The platypus deaths occurred in a less than 2km stretch of Lagoon Creek.
