TRAWL FISHERY PROFILED AS SEAFOOD LOVERS URGED TO BUY HOME GROWN

Buy local and support Queensland industry was the clear message from Primary Industries and Fisheries Minister Tim Mulherin today as he announced a community education initiative profiling the trawl industry.

“The Queensland trawl industry, as with many of the State’s fisheries, is facing a number of challenges including increased fuel prices and fierce competition from cheaper imported seafood from South East Asia and South America,” Mr Mulherin said.

"Buying locally-caught Queensland seafood means consumers are not only enjoying fresher product, but they will also be supporting the State’s sustainable local fishing industries.

“Queensland’s trawl industry is the state’s largest and most valuable fishery. The fishery is worth $100 million and brings in more than 10,000 tonnes of seafood per year,” Mr Mulherin said.

In addition to calling for support for Queensland industry, Mr Mulherin also applauded inshore trawl operators on the Sunshine and Cooloola coasts who have developed a new industry Code of Practice.

“The voluntary code developed by the industry encourages operators to follow best practice procedures which will help to protect the marine environment and reduce incidents of concern to the local community such as by-catch washing up on beaches,” Mr Mulherin said.

“The fishing industry is also continuing to work closely with researchers from DPI&F and other agencies to develop more selective and lower impact fishing techniques to reduce the catch of non-target species.

“The recent inclusion of two more recognised by-catch reduction devices in the Fisheries (East Coast Trawl) Management Plan 1999, highlights the proactive approach industry is now taking to working with government to protect the marine environment.’’

The Beattie Government also announced during the election campaign incentives worth $4 million over four years to fund design and demonstration of hoppers and a rebate for trawl operators to purchase and install these devices.

To help profile the industry, the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries in association with the Queensland Seafood Industry Association and with support from the Independent Trawl Association today released a brochure titled, Facts about Queensland Trawl Fisheries.

Queensland’s high quality, locally caught seafood will be profiled at the Mooloolaba Seafood Festival this Sunday (September 17). The festival will be held at the Mooloolaba Spit from 8.30am to 5pm.

Media:David Potter 32396530