Work has begun on the construction of four artificial reefs which will further enhance the Territory’s vibrant recreational fishing industry.

An $8.3M contract has been awarded to local company Shorelands NT Pty Ltd to construct the reefs in the Beagle Gulf as part of the Territory Government’s $50 million investment to improve recreational fishing opportunities.

Northern Territory business Shorelands has joined forces with Subcon Technologies – a company that has designed and built 17 artificial reefs across Australia – to deploy four new engineered, artificial reefs – a first for the Territory.  

Shorelands began the concrete pours this month and will construct 96 separate steel and concrete modules, which will sit on the sea floor in four different locations and are designed to replicate the best possible natural reef habitat.

The new artificial reefs will be located in the Greater Darwin region, two will be between North Gutter and Lee Point, one in the Dundee region and one between the Vernon Islands and Cape Hotham.

They are expected to be installed later this year and while it will take several years for them to fully establish it shouldn’t take too long for recreational fishers to notice their benefits.

Quotes from Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Paul Kirby:

“The Northern Territory Government has committed to invest $50 million over five years in a number of recreational fishing infrastructure projects to enhance the recreational fishing industry and create jobs.” 

“This important project will improve recreational fishing as a lifestyle activity and tourism feature in the Top End, attracting both local and visiting fishers to drop a line in our waters.

Quotes from Shorelands managing director Arthur Hamilton:

“Shorelands is excited to carry out this world class project in partnership with Subcon Technologies.

“The artificial reefs will be a great asset to the Territory for recreational fishers and the environment.”

Quotes from Amateur Fishermen’s Association of the Northern Territory CEO David Ciaravolo:

"These new purpose-built reefs will help create new, exciting and diverse fishing opportunities for Top End fishers and tourists.

"Artificial fish habitat design and construction has come a long way and the reefs that will feature in the Top End will be world class.”

Media Contact: Carl Pfeiffer 0417 910 720