THE livelihood of Moreton Bay oyster farmers is under threat from thieves, with a Dunwich-based grower resorting to spy cameras to protect this season’s harvest.
Gordon Gibson said he lost $10,000 last year when about 150 bags of oysters were stolen in four thefts.
He hoped to warn off thieves with security cameras and signage warning that it was a $1200 offence to interfere with an oyster lease.
The problem is so bad some growers fear they will be assaulted or have boats sunk in retribution for reporting thieves to police.
Growers have offered a $1000 reward to encourage boaties to dob in those responsible.
Queensland Oyster Growers Association president Tim Prowse said theft from leases was an ongoing problem.
“I don’t think there’s a grower who hasn’t experienced theft,” he said.
“It is just part of the industry.”
North Stradbroke Island Growers Association president John Richards said growers feared they would be bashed or have boats sunk for contacting police.
Mr Richards had about 2100 oysters stolen from his lease near Dunwich last year.
“It was a significant amount for me,” he said.
“It’s very frustrating as we can’t be there all the time and people just go and help themselves.
“It takes a long time to recover the money we have lost.”
Mr Richards said most growers went to their leases about three times a week.
“There is no better deterrent than being there but we can’t be there every day.”
Interfering with a commercial oyster lease carries an on-the-spot fine of $1261 and anyone caught stealing from a commercial lease can face prosecution.
A police spokesman called on boaties to help.
“Vessels with the letter J preceding their vessel registration are designated oyster lease boats and are the only vessels allowed within marked oyster lease areas,” he said.
Anyone who sees anything suspicious can take a photograph, if possible, and call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Policelink on 131 444.
