East Coast Angling, located in Port Douglas, Queensland, is a fishing charter dedicated to providing sustainable and high-quality nature-based tourism experiences. With a strong commitment to protecting the Great Barrier Reef, East Coast Angling prides itself on its environmentally friendly practises.
Recognising the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which their business operates, East Coast Angling pays respect to the Elders past, present, and emerging. They also acknowledge the ongoing Sea Country management and custodianship of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners, who play a vital role in protecting the Reef for future generations.
East Coast Angling has been recognised as a GBR Reef Guardian Fisher, a programme by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. This recognition is bestowed upon commercial fishers who practise sustainable fishing and actively assist in maintaining the health of the Great Barrier Reef. By going above and beyond state and federal laws, East Coast Angling shares knowledge with other fishers and communities, participates in research and the trial of new technologies, and reports back to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority on the marine environment via the Sightings App.
To further minimise their environmental impact, East Coast Angling has implemented an Environmental Sustainability Policy and Environmental Management Plan, which are reviewed annually. They are committed to preventing, reducing, or mitigating any harmful effects on natural resources. Among their sustainability measures, East Coast Angling utilises low-emission engines that are regularly serviced for optimal efficiency. Additionally, they have implemented LED lighting at their office and workshop, and have a comprehensive waste management system that includes recycling cardboard, cans, plastics, and bottles.
East Coast Angling participates in the ecoBiz Programme, a free initiative funded by the Queensland Government and run by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland. This programme helps businesses audit their resource use and reduce costs related to waste, water, and energy bills. By monitoring their resource use and carbon emissions annually, East Coast Angling strives to continually improve their sustainability practises.
As a mark of their commitment to sustainable practises, East Coast Angling has achieved Ecotourism Certification with Ecotourism Australia. This certification assures guests that their products are backed by a dedication to sustainable practises and provide high-quality nature-based tourism experiences.
Furthermore, East Coast Angling's Director actively engages with the local community through presentations on sustainable fishing, connecting local students to the importance of sustainable use of their local reef systems. They are involved in the Douglashire Fish for the Future initiative and are a member of the Douglas Shire GBRMPA Local Marine Advisory Committee. By involving schools and the community in education about sustainable practises and the threats facing the reef, East Coast Angling aims to encourage stewardship and increased community action to protect the Reef's long-term health.
In conclusion, East Coast Angling is a fishing charter in Port Douglas that is committed to sustainability and protecting the Great Barrier Reef. With their eco-friendly practises, certifications, and active involvement in the community, they provide guests with unforgettable experiences while ensuring the preservation of this treasured natural wonder.