Cayman 27's senior reporter and weatherman Joey Avary makes no secret of his passion for hunting lionfish. “They're an invasive predator and they are very damaging to the reef ecosystem, but they are also quite tasty and in-demand in Cayman's culinary scene,” he explained. “Removing these fish from our reefs is hard work but it's quite rewarding because I know it helps the environment.”
Hurley's Media has allowed Mr. Avary to take a week off with pay to hunt this invasive predator and rid them from our reefs. The proceeds of the sale of the fish will go to support a different organization each day. Here are the organization's Joe has selected: Monday – Cayman Islands Cancer Society Tuesday – NCVO Nadine Andreas Foster Home Wednesday – One Dog At A Time Thursday – Cayman Islands Crisis Centre Friday – TBA “I am asking the public to help sponsor this effort,” said Mr. Avary. “I've created an email address [email protected] where anyone can pledge any amount, or match my catch for the day.
If anyone would like to nominate a 5th organization for the Friday, I am also open to suggestions!” Mr. Avary, who is also a proud member of the Cayman United Lionfish League (CULL) said he doesn't know how much his initiative will raise, but with help from the public matching his efforts, he hopes it will make a difference.
“Most restaurants pay around $6 per pound for the fish, so I'm hoping we will get loads in a week of culling,” he said. Divetech Ltd has agreed to provide his scuba tanks for the cull, and some of its staffers will be joining him on the hunt for support. Mr. Avary competes on the Divetech culling team which sets the CULL record of most fish in a tournament. (542 during CULL #19) Join Joe Avary on Cayman 27 tonight (Friday 22nd September) for more information, and he will also be doing updates on 94.9 BOB FM – Grand Cayman throughout the week and on Hurley's Media's other social media platforms.
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