Flinders Islet (which most people know as Toothbrush Island) would become a sanctuary zone, where fishing of any sort would not be allowed, other than Aboriginal cultural and heritage usage.

The rest of the Five Islands zone would be a “special purpose zone”, where recreational and commercial fishing would be allowed, including spear fishing, taking abalone, and rock lobster fishing. But gathering shells and marine vegetation would be off-limits as the islands are an important seabird habitat.

Wollongong’s famed set of islands are included in the Hawkesbury Shelf (Sydney) “bioregion” marine park announced on Thursday by Permier Gladys Berejiklian.

It was welcomed by environmentalists, with Australian Marine Conservation Society CEO Darren Kindleysides calling it “a really good opportunity for our marine life and everyone who loves fishing, boating, diving and swimming”.

“Unfortunately, protection for this part of the coast has been far from world-class,” he said.

“This announcement is a signal that this is about to change.”

Sydney Marine Park Campaigner Sharnie Connell said: “The science shows sanctuary zones in marine parks work because they increase the diversity, size, and abundance of marine life.

“Science-based sanctuary protection for the Sydney region will also secure a healthy blue backyard for our boating, swimming, surfing and fishing lifestyle.”

Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said the park would be accompanied by $45.7 million to be spent on a 10-year marine estate management strategy.

“The Marine Estate Strategy is a massive win for the environment and for those who enjoy getting onto the water,” she said.

“As in all things, the important thing is to get the balance right.”

The plan has been put out for public consultation via the NSW Marine Estate Website www.marine.nsw.gov.au

A public information stall will be held at the Wollongong Markets on Friday, September 14, from 9am-1pm.