$20 million for Victorian fishing
Labor pledges $20 million in state budget to grow rec fishing numbers to one millionThe Andrews Labor Government unveiled on Saturday (May 2) some $20 million in new initiatives and services to grow recreational fishing in Victoria by encouraging families to get outdoors and enjoy fishing.
The Labor Government’s "Target One Million plan" – to be secured in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget – is designed to increase recreational fishing in Victoria over four years, creating jobs, supporting local businesses and strengthening rural and regional communities.
A popular pastime, recreational fishing currently contributes $2.3 billion to our social and economic well-being.
The plan aims to increase the number of Victorian recreational fishers from about 730,000 to 1 million by encouraging participation with enhanced fishing opportunities and facilities.
FISH STOCKING BOOST
Under the plan, fish stocking will increase to 5 million fish per year, attracting more visitors to our regions for new fishing opportunities, boosting local economies and helping businesses grow and create jobs.
Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, released 200 yearling rainbow trout into Casey Fields Lake last weekend, as a first step to increase fish stocking to 5 million fish per year.
NEW REEFS AND RAMPS
The plan will also provide the Better Fishing Facilities Fund to develop new recreational fishing reefs, improve boat launching facilities and support better access to waterways.
New children’s fishing programs will teach the next generation of fishers responsible fishing behaviours while a grant program will support angling clubs in promoting the popular pastime.
NO MORE NETS
Also included in the plan is a program to halt commercial netting in Port Phillip and Corio bays over eight years through a buyout of licences, increasing fish stocks for recreational anglers.
"Target One Million will grow recreational fishing in Victoria, giving families better opportunities to spend some quality time together outdoors," Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, said.
"Increasing the number of recreational fishers to one million will create jobs, support local businesses and strengthen our rural and regional communities.
"Our eight-year program to halt commercial netting in Port Phillip and Corio bays will increase fish availability for recreational anglers and support clubs, while giving licence holders certainty," Pulford added.
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