Recfishwest today welcomed the latest Commonwealth Marine Reserves’ network plans, which recognises the importance of fishing in WA.
Recfishwest Operations Manager Leyland Campbell said Recfishwest was pleased to see these new plans deliver a more balanced approach than what had been seen in the past and that the value of key recreational fishing areas have been acknowledged.
“These plans are definitely a large improvement on the plans produced by the previous Government which significantly impacted on fishing access,” Mr Campbell said.
“After years of uncertainty, long drawn-out discussions and several different draft plans, today’s announcement is a better outcome for fishing.
“These new plans maintain access to many of the iconic fishing locations around WA, including the Rottnest Trench and the South West’s Geographe Bay which had previously been earmarked for closed areas. This will mean that West Aussies can continue to sustainably fish these places for generations to come.
“Some of the issues of most concern we raised with the Commonwealth Government in the latter stages of the planning process, have been taken on board.
“We will be looking at the draft management plans very closely during the consultation period and providing further feedback into the process.”
Recfishwest support marine parks that are created for the purpose of recreation, science, education, conservation and enhanced visitor experiences.
Recfishwest believe marine park zoning must be underpinned by science and should be implemented using simple, practical management that is risk-based, transparent and subject to regular review.