The South Eastern coastal region of Queensland is the most heavily urbanised and populated area of the state. The city of Gold Coast, in terms of size, ranks number 6 in the country with a population in excess of 540 000, as well as being a high density tourism node within Australia.
The Gold Coast Sea Way and it’s associated rock walls are ideal habitat for juvenile sea turtles who have recently recruited from open ocean habitat and are taking up residency in the neritic zone. It is also one of the most popular sites for recreational fishers and water users in the state. Stranding reports show a high number of vessel strike and fishing injuries sustained by sea turtles (predominantly Chelonia mydas and Eretmochelys imbricata) residing and foraging in this area. This study aims to investigate the impact of various activities within the Gold Coast Sea Way, predominantly focusing on the impact recreational fishing practices are having on sea turtle populations and their implications (increased mortality in juveniles across the entire state), aiming to quantify the issue and design a suitable conservation management strategy involving all stakeholders to ensure the successful future management of this delicate ecosystem.