Fish find sanctuary in Cove's Marina

by Jordi Fanning on 1 Sep 2014 Sanctuary Cove Marina has become Southeast Queensland’s first ‘Fish Friendly’ Marina after being accredited by leading industry body, the Marina Industries Association (MIA).

The Marina’s fish friendly status makes it one of only a handful to receive the recognition nationally and follows its re-accreditation as an International Clean Marina Level three by the MIA.

Sanctuary Cove Marina’s re-accreditation to International Clean Marina Level three involved an independent audit covering areas such as fuelling, waste storage and disposal, emergency planning and management of environmental practices, according to MIA director John Hogan.

Mr Hogan said the additional Fish Friendly program informed marina managers on how to maximise benefits for fish, and then recognised those actively working to improve the marina’s fish habitat.

'I congratulate Sanctuary Cove Marina on once again attaining Level three International Clean Marina and Fish Friendly status on its significant commitment to protecting and preserving the marina’s valuable marine habitat and communicating its efforts to customers and visitors,' he said.

The Fish Friendly accreditation process involved Sanctuary Cove Marina working with State Government agencies in supporting advisory programs for boaties about their role in preventing spread of marine pests and diseases and interacting with the public to encourage environmentally responsible use of the space.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove marina operations manager Helen Motteram said it was important for marinas to consider the surrounding natural environment.

'It is essential marinas continue to set the highest environmental standards,' she said.

'Fish were here before boats, so we recognise the importance of maintaining a safe and inhabitable place for marine life.

'This is a meaningful program that allows the boating industry to jump on board with environmentally friendly initiatives.'

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove executive general manager Keith Allardice said the accreditation was an important step for the Sanctuary Cove community.

'It’s important for us to hold the marina to the highest standards for the benefit of boaties, residents, and visitors and of course the marine life which inhabit the area,' he said.

The International Clean Marinas and Fish Friendly Marinas initiatives are available to marinas across the Asia Pacific region.

Sanctuary Cove was the first residential community in Australia to receive Five Gold Anchor residential canal estate accreditation by the MIA in 2012.

Sanctuary Cove is a resort-style master planned community, featuring two 18-hole championship golf courses, a 300-berth marina, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, and a Country Club including full fitness centre, tennis courts and 25m swimming pool.

At the heart of the community is the Marine Village – Sanctuary Cove’s very own waterfront commercial, retail and dining precinct, with more than 80 tenancies.