We’re excited to share that fishing hook and line bins have now been installed by Ballina Shire Council at three popular recreational fishing spots, Gawandii Beach, North Wall (near the Marine Rescue Tower), and Fishery Creek Boat Ramp, as part of a six-month trial initiative.
This project is a collaborative effort between Council, DPIRD, Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue, WIRES and Ozfish aiming to reduce the environmental impact of discarded fishing gear, by encouraging the correct disposal.
These dedicated bins help fishers dispose of used tackle responsibly, protecting our environment and supporting sustainable fishing.
So far, in just the first few weeks, the bins have already collected:

  • 223 metres of fishing line
  • 15 hooks
  • 2 sinkers
  • 12 lures, floats, or swivels

Ballina Shire Council’s Health and Environment team is maintaining the bins and conducting regular audits to assess the program’s success. If the trial proves effective, council hope to expand to more locations across the Shire!
This initiative is part of the council’s Healthy Waterways Program, highlighting their commitment to caring for our land, waterways, and marine life. The hook and line bins were funded by the Marine Estate Management Strategy (MEMS).