Net-free zones get $300,000 funding boost to attract more tourists

The Palaszczuk Government has announced funding to further promote Queensland’s three net-free zones as recreational fishing destinations.

Speaking in Cairns, Fisheries Minister Mark Furner said $100,000 each was being offered to Cairns, Mackay and Rockhampton regional councils to promote the fantastic fishing opportunities that have been created by the zones.

“I am delighted that all three councils have indicated they will match the funding, meaning there will be more money available for recreational fishing,” Minister Furner said.

“The funding can be used for signage, recreational fishing infrastructure or promotional materials to further establish those locations as iconic fishing destinations.

“All the indications are that the zones are working as predicted to improve the quantity and size of fish available for recreational fishers. Word is spreading that they are great places for fishing enthusiasts to visit on holiday and the local economies are reaping the benefits.

“It is important that we work together across state and local governments in collaboration with tourism and community groups to promote recreational fishing in Queensland to fully realise the fantastic potential of the zones.

“This tourism opportunity for regional councils was made possible from the remaining funding of the $10 million set aside to establish three net free zones in 2015.”

Minister Furner said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to improving recreational fishing infrastructure such as boat ramps, pontoons and stocked impoundments throughout the state and was rolling out a $20 million Sustainable Fisheries Strategy to create a world-class fisheries management system.

He said Fisheries Queensland was also working on other measures to collect better data on recreational fishing.

“This will include an upgraded recreational fishing app that will give fishers access to better information on fishing rules and also allow fishers to become citizen scientists and provide data on their fishing catch,” he said.

“The upgraded app will be more dynamic, providing better fish identification and will provide the user with location specific information utilising GPS technology such as notifications, when entering a marine park or green zone.

“The app in its current version has been downloaded more than 40,000 times.”

For more information, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.

Follow Fisheries Queensland on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@FisheriesQld).

ENDS

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