Being a fisherman definitely has had its advantages, not just having access to a fresh feed of prawns and crabs, but also seeing nature at its very best, discovering the array of seagrass and fishlife.

Wallis Lake has 20% of NSW seagrass and is the northern boundary for the species Posidonia australis (broadweed in layman's terms), a vitally important species to all estuary lfe, although highly vulnerable due to slow growth and colinisation abilities. Zostera species (blackweed) is the predominant species in the estuary, tolerating less saline conditions. This seagrass recolinises well and supports abundant life in general. Ruppia (tassel weed) is an important species more prominent in the southern part of the lake, in some areas growing top to bottom in 4–5 feet of water, and is another major habitat contributor.

As far as crustaceans and finfish are concerned, seagrass meadows are where it all starts, "The Juice Of Life", so to speak. From micro-organisms in the benthic community through to the major predator finfish – such as taylor, jewfish and flathead – all of these are dependent on seagrasses for existence.

Commercial fishing in Wallis Lake relies on the health of the seagrasses, whether meshing mullet or bullring garfish, all species either live, breed, rest or predate on, in, near or adjacent to seagrass. The commercial fisherman must have the ultimate responsibility for respecting the estuarine environment by either endorsing propeller-free zones in such vulnerable areas, or by allowing proper management mechanisms such as fish habitat protection zones or total closures in general.

I feel that Wallis Lake is at the crossroads of its sustainablity and also its identity as a highly productive estuary. Factors outside its waters are determining and dictating its future. What will we have? Will it be sustainability and protection; or will it be exploitation and band aids? Everyone wants to live near the peaceful water, everyone needs land, so now enters the land-based equation.

The twin towns of Forster/ Tuncurry have become one of the highest growth rate centres in NSW, so demand for land is high; supply must meet demand at any cost, but what is the true cost? Has anyone valued the functions of pristine wetlands?

The same applies to: Has anyone valued the salt marsh–mangrove habitats? It seems only to have been measured in real estate market values, instead of the contributions these areas make in keeping the estuary alive and well.

It is not all doom and gloom, however, because there are considerable areas under the protection of national parks. For instance, Booti Booti National Park surrounds the lake from Cape Hawke Head in the south and then, to the west, it has recently expanded and taken over Wallinghat State Forest, which has given a significant extra area to the park. The real threats seem to be in the catchment areas of the four rivers that flow into Wallis Lake: land clearing, drainage of wetlands, and nutrient loads from agriculture. These have all had significant impacts on the overall health of the estuary.

I guess at times we tend to look at problems and issues relating to the lake, and look at the thorns instead of the roses.The natural beauty of this watering system with its many and various habitats, along with the creatures that live in these habitats, cannot but leave the observer in awe and wonder. The majesty of sea eagles soaring above the thermal air flows, acres of mullet jumping in the fun of the setting afternoon sun. These scenes will always remain in my valued memories ...

Greg Golby 
is a member of the 
Wallis Lake Estuary Management Committee.