'Not out of the woods' Baby Juno's rescue to inspire fishing people to dispose properly

The Mail reported last week that experts were pleading for a quick intervention after the baby dolphin was spotted in the Peel Inlet wrapped in fishing line.

On Friday more than 25 Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) staff on several boats got involved in the rescue action which culminated when Jemo swam into extremely shallow water where he was netted and entangled.

"He was entangled in braided fishing line which is far quicker to cut through tissue than monofilament line," Mandurah Dolphin Rescue Project spokesperson Sally Kirby explained.

"The rescue was not only a tremendous effort...but also a reflection on the action and preparing for such incidents that have taken over the past few months.

"We are not there yet but significant progress has been made. Now I pray that against the odds Jemo would survive his ordeal."

The Estuary Guardians Mandurah grouped thanked the team of department officers and vets for their efforts.

"Before he had no chance. Sadly we understand he was entangled in braided fishing line which as we know through [deceased dolphin] Luca causes significant injury.

"Jemo has suffered injuries from the line and he is not out of the woods, he still has a fight on his hands. We all really hope he can heal and do well. At least now he has that chance.

"If only we could bottle up his entanglement suffering, and all the work that has gone into trying to help him and move the people who simply do not care enough to properly dispose of fishing line, rope and rubbish to make the necessary change."

Even during the rescue a volunteer found discarded line and hooks on a jetty only metres from a Reel it In fishing line bin.

"We know the majority do the right thing and care (many care a lot and some are even our strongest advocates for clean waterways) but we do say to the fishing community let's try and reach [those] who don't," the Estuary Guardians spokesperson said.

"We hope Jemo's living legacy is that everyone is moved to do what they can to keep our waterways clean."

The DBCA said the entanglements were a timely reminder of the importance of disposing of fishing line - which doesn't break down - by placing it in the Reel It In bins.

If you spot a dolphin in distress contact Estuary Guardians Mandurah on their Facebook page or call the DBCA on 9219 9000.