Completing a simple survey could play an important part in strengthening Queenslander's marine pest biosecurity.
'Everyone has a part to play in marine biosecurity and Biosecurity Queensland wants to know the boating practices people have now, and how much people know about marine pest biosecurity to help decide what areas to focus the education and awareness campaign on,' Mr Furner said.
'That is why we are asking anyone who works or enjoys time in Queensland's magnificent marine environment to complete the online survey which is open until 29 March 2019.
'The survey will provide valuable information about current marine pest biosecurity knowledge including awareness, prevention, preparedness, identification and response to a suspected marine pest sighting.
'As we have seen with white spot disease, some pests have great potential for destroying our marine environment, the businesses that rely upon it and impacting our way of life,' Mr Furner said.
'Pests such as Asian green mussel, Brown mussel, Japanese seaweed and Harris mud crab can displace and exclude native species, carry disease, and foul infrastructure which impacts on commercial fisheries, ports, marinas and the tourism industry.
'The early detection and notification of a single Asian Green Mussel in waters near Weipa in May 2017 and the prompt action taken following that discovery were crucial in achieving a terrific biosecurity outcome,' Mr Furner said.
'I therefore encourage anyone with an interest in Queensland's valuable marine environment to complete the marine pest survey because improving education and awareness will ultimately help protect the natural environment, our economy,and our way of life.