Today the State Government announced it will begin planning for a new marine park across Exmouth Gulf.
Here is our initial statement
Originally recommended by the State Government in December 2021, fishers have been waiting for further details on this marine park for almost four years.
Today’s announcement includes a proposal from Government to implement no-catch sanctuary zones in at least 30% of the proposed park area. Recfishwest believes that locking in an arbitrary target for sanctuary zones before park boundaries or local needs are even discussed is completely premature.
The recent South Coast Marine Park process showed what happens when local communities are not genuinely engaged from the outset – it became contentious and divisive. Fishers want confidence that Exmouth Gulf will be handled differently. We have been assured that this planning phase will adopt a more inclusive, co-design approach, and Recfishwest will work to hold the Government to this commitment.
Our position:
Recreational fishing is central to Exmouth Gulf’s identity, economy and lifestyle. Any marine park must safeguard access and support the tourism and fishing sectors that rely on the Gulf.
WA’s recreational fishers are strong champions of sustainability. We expect a marine park that allows families, locals and visitors to continue to enjoy responsible fishing while also protecting the important Gulf ecosystem.
Our priority is to ensure any new marine park enhances community benefits, creating opportunities for better fishing experiences.
The South Coast process was divisive and caused frustration. This time, fishers expect a transparent, inclusive approach that genuinely responds to community concerns.
Today’s announcement is the start of the planning process, not the end, and no zoning detail has been proposed yet.
Once again, Recfishwest will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of WA fishers and keep you informed as this process unfolds.
