Community wants end to 'terrorising wildlife' at popular lake

Growing concerns about illegal fishing at Perth's culturally significant Galup Reserve are threatening a protected turtle species, with locals describing the activity as "terrorising wildlife." The Friends of Galup community group has reported a disturbing increase in turtles found dead, entangled in fishing lines and hooks, and a noticeable decline in the turtles' presence.

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It's come to a bit of a head lately ... this poor turtle must've had a pretty vicious death, there was some really strong cut marks under its legs

Robyn Walsh from Friends of Galup described harrowing encounters with deceased turtles, one of which showed "really strong cut marks under its legs," suggesting a violent death. She noted that visible signs of turtles have decreased considerably over the past three years. Despite "No Fishing" signs in key areas, Walsh stated that some individuals ignore warnings, with some becoming abusive when approached.

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The last three years, the visible signs of turtles have decreased considerably.

The issue was raised at a Town of Cambridge council meeting, where the administration acknowledged that fines were not being enforced. While the town is working with Traditional Owners on new signage to highlight the reserve's significance and the risks posed by fishing gear, the administration noted that fishing is not currently an offense under town laws. The council has requested an investigation into incorporating educational information about the environmental impacts of fishing into these efforts.

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Some of them nod 'yes' and stay on doing it, some of them say 'oh I didn't know' and walk away, and some just tell you to 'F... off' and get quite abusive