Friday, 21 February, 2014
Labor’s new recreational fishing opportunities
More infrastructure at local fishing spots, opening reservoirs to recreational fishers and a new artificial reef are part of Labor’s package of measures to enhance the experience of recreational fishing.
Premier Jay Weatherill has announced a re-elected Labor Government would provide $3.25 million in funding for the new measures.
“We want to encourage more community use of our beautiful marine parks,†Mr Weatherill said.
“So we will be offering grants to support recreational fishing in and around our marine parks.
“One in six South Australians will wet a line at least once this year.
“What we’re introducing will enhance the experience in a number of ways.
“We will offer regional support grants to groups such as clubs and local councils to improve infrastructure at local spots, such as toilets, camping areas and fish measuring stations – or even upgrades to boat ramps.â€
Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter said Labor also would partner with RecFish SA to find a suitable location for the placement of an artificial reef.
“Artificial reefs are becoming increasingly popular around Australia and overseas,†Mr Hunter said.
“Ecologically sustainable, artificial reefs have a number of advantages - they can increase tourism and create new places to fish for locals, as well as benefit businesses nearby, all while providing new habitats for marine species.
“This initiative will involve a reef installed off our coast, and the results of associated research will inform future decisions about further reefs for our marine environment.â€
Mr Hunter said Labor would also lead the way in opening off-line reservoirs, such as Warren, Bundaleer, Tod and Hindmarsh Valley, to recreational fishing.
“This is another great example of an initiative that has multiple benefits,†Mr Hunter said.
“By opening up access to reservoirs that are not connected to our drinking water supply, recreational fishers can add a new place to their fishing destinations, tourism can expand in the areas where they are located, and noxious species such as carp can be reduced.â€
Labor will contribute funding towards minor infrastructure around reservoirs such as toilets and pathways, helping local councils benefit from opening up access to previously unfished locations.
The new measures are described on page 130 of Labor’s Plan for South Australia 2014 – 2018.
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