Net-free Moreton Bay

LNP Member for Cleveland Mark Robinson has thrown his support for a net-free fishing zone in Moreton Bay, identical to plans the Labor Government has for three zones along the coast as reported in Nets Away in QLD.

Labor Minister for Fisheries Bill Byrne said that the Opposition Leader Lawrence Springborg must now come on board with Labor’s three net-free zones, given his own backbench support for them via Mr Robinson's support.

"With his own backbench now talking about net-free zones in the South East corner – it’s time for the LNP to support the same concept in regional Queensland," said Minister Byrne.

Labor took a commitment for three regional Queensland net-free zones to the 2015 election and the zones are due to commence on November 1.

The three net-free zones, at Cairns, near Mackay, and Rockhampton will see an increase in recreational fishing, a boost for tourism and charter boat fishing.

Recreational fishing groups Sunfish Queensland and Keep Australia Fishing have been lobbying for net-free zones in Pumicestone region, Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island and at Jumpinpin.

"The Palaszczuk Government’s three net-free zones are also a commitment of the Reef2050 plan co-signed by the Commonwealth Government.

"It is clear Mr Robinson realises the potential of net-free zones to Queensland, and he should be applauded for his foresight," the Minister said, calling for statewide support in a bit of shrewd politicking.

Labor’s election commitment to net-free zones did extend to Moreton Bay after consultation with the recreational and commercial fishing groups, and after the establishment of the three regional zones.

So if both sides of politics can bury the hatchet and get on with protecting the fishery in Moreton Bay, just about everyone will benefit and some rec fishing businesses might flourish. Destructive gill netting needs to be banned from Moreton Bay.

For details of Mark Robinson’s support for net-free zones see https://www.facebook.com/MarkRobinsonMP.