Community & Business
15 April, 2026
Inaugural pest fish competition
LOCAL families and fishers can enjoy the final weekend of school holidays while helping to improve the biodiversity of Lake Tinaroo by entering into a dedicated pest fish fishing competition.
The Tableland Fish Stocking Society (TFSS) is hosting its very first fishing competition specifically dedicated to eradicating pest fish, such as catfish and tilapia, from Lake Tinaroo.
“Catfish and tilapia are pest fish introduced into Lake Tinaroo and are predators to other native fish species in Tinaroo and surrounding waterways. Both species have significant populations in the dam,” TFSS president Doug Luscombe said.
Mr Luscombe said tilapia were introduced to Australia as an ornamental fish in the 70s and are now one of the greatest threats to Australia’s native fish biodiversity.
“There are two species of tilapia in Queensland – the Mozambique tilapia and the spotted tilapia – both are present in Lake Tinaroo,” he said.
“Tilapia can be found in a variety of habitats including reservoirs, lakes, ponds, drains, rivers, creeks, swamps, and even in tidal creeks and estuaries. There is currently no single, effective method against tilapia because of their very high reproductive rate.”
There are great prizes on offer for whoever catches the highest number of pest fish at the event. Categories include most pest fish caught by an adult (16yrs and older), a junior (6yrs and under, 7-10yrs, and 11-15yrs), or a team (maximum five people).
“We want the community to support this event, not only to help improve the biodiversity of Lake Tinaroo, but also to support the Tableland Fish Stocking Society and allow us to continue restocking the lake for the enjoyment of everyone,” Mr Luscombe said.
The fishing competition will be held on Saturday from 6am-3pm at Lake Tinaroo’s foreshore picnic area. To register, visit www.tablelandsfishstockingsociety.com.au/pest-fish-comp
