
Recreational angler input is being sought for the Commonwealth Marine Reserves Review. The review is being conducted to consider what management arrangements will best protect our marine environment and accommodate the many activities that Australians love to enjoy in our oceans.
The Review includes two components: an Expert Scientific Panel to review the science supporting zoning and marine reserve management; and five Bioregional Advisory Panels to facilitate stakeholder consultation.
The views of all stakeholders are being keenly sought before the March 31 deadline. The simplest way to have your say is to take the online survey at www.marinereservesreview.com.au/.
This survey consists of 20 questions (not all of which have to be answered) and should take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. If you previously made a submission on the marine park proposals, these are also being considered in the review. You can also make a fresh submission.
The closing date for written submissions has been extended until March 31 as well, to coincide with the closing date for the online survey.
Recreational fishers can ask to meet with the Bioregional Advisory Panel in their area.
For more information on how you can join the conversation and have your say go to www.environment.gov.au/marinereservesreview/join-the-conversation
.
Key rec-fishing bodies including Recfishwest in WA, from whom we sourced this reminded, are preparing submissions on behalf of anglers in their region.
The two hook-up shots accompanying this article are from Nomad Charters, who run adventure fishing trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef.