START ON GOLD COAST JETTIES GOOD NEWS FOR EVERYONE BAR THE PRAWNS

Gold Coast fishers will soon be able to moor and unload with ease with new unloading facilities being constructed at the Southport Spit, Natural Resources Minister Craig Wallace and Member for Southport Peter Lawlor said today.

The existing wooden jetties were deteriorating and were closed earlier this year due to safety reasons.

Mr Wallace said both the Gold Coast fishers and residents win from the deal.

“By providing portable jetties we solve the short-term operational needs of Gold Coast fishers,” Mr Wallace said.

Mr Lawlor said: “The fishing fleet boosts the economy of the Gold Coast and is an attraction for the tourism industry. The Government is committed to supporting its continued operation.”

In February, Premier Peter Beattie offered a Government assistance package to Gold Coast commercial fishers to address the immediate need for adequate facilities at the Spit.

Mr Wallace said the package included the removal of the old jetties and a special Government loan for the Gold Coast Fisherman’s Co-operative to purchase portable replacements.

“The existing jetties at BroadwaterHarbour precinct will be removed and portable replacement jetties will be purchased at an estimated cost of $360,000,” Mr Wallace said.

The Government will cover the cost of removing the existing jetties and installing new pylons, estimated at $120,000. A special Government loan of $240,000 is also being negotiated so the Co-operative can purchase the portable jetties.

Mr Wallace said this week the Co-operative received the first progress payment cheque for $30,000.

The Co-operative leases the land on which the jetties are situated from the State.

The new jetties will remain the property of the Co-operative, with the possibility of on-selling them once a more permanent solution can be found.

Media contact: Caroline Kaurila, Craig Wallace’s office on 3896 3694 or 0414 213 954.