Get Hooked on Healthy Waterways in Cairns

Get ready, North Queensland fishers!

The Hooked on Healthy Waterways Forum is coming to Cairns on Thursday, 19 September, at James Cook University. This one-day event is a must for anyone who loves fish, fishing, or fish ecology.  

OzFish Unlimited, Wet Tropics Waterways, the Queensland Government, and JCU have joined forces to bring you a jam-packed day of expert speakers, hands-on tours, and all things fish!

Why Attend? This forum is your chance to learn from some of the best in the business about what it takes to improve our waterways for the fish we love. With presentations from fish scientists, fishing experts, and Traditional Owners, you’ll gain valuable insights into the importance of habitat, water quality, and connectivity for fish. 

Special guest Benny Glass, well-known from Channel Seven’s Creek to Coast, will headline the event. Benny is a passionate advocate for sustainable seafood harvesting and ocean conservation, and his energetic presence is sure to make the day even more exciting. 

In addition to the talks, you’ll have the opportunity to tour JCU’s Eduquarium and Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. These tours offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at the cutting-edge research and conservation efforts happening right here in North Queensland. 

And since the event takes place during the school holidays, it’s a great opportunity for younger fish lovers (12 years and up) to get involved too. 

OzFish is proud to be part of this important event, with our own experts sharing their knowledge and experience in habitat restoration.  

Robbie Porter will discuss the Shellfish Revolution, an exciting initiative to restore lost shellfish reefs, while Dr. Geoff Collins will cover how you can get involved in fish habitat projects in North Queensland. 

Both of these talks will provide practical advice and inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference in their local waterways. 

Phil Laycock, OzFish’s Project Manager in Cairns, shares his excitement for the forum:

“This is an incredible opportunity for recreational fishers to learn from top experts about the crucial role habitat restoration plays in supporting healthy fish populations. If you care about the future of our waterways, this event is not to be missed.” 

Join Us Whether you’re a fisher, farmer, scientist, or simply passionate about the environment, the Hooked on Healthy Waterways Forum has something for everyone.  

Register now, so you don’t miss out on this chance to connect with like-minded individuals and learn how you can help protect and enhance our precious aquatic ecosystems. 


This event is a collaboration between Wet Tropics Waterways, OzFish Unlimited, James Cook University and the Queensland Government and is supported by BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.