Media release: Anglers’ views invited for Gippsland fishery management

Tuesday 13 October 2009

Recreational anglers are being encouraged to have a say in the development of the East Gippsland Fishery Management Plan.

The plan will be looking at fisheries in rivers such as the Mitchell, Nicholson and Tambo and in inlets like Sydenham and Marlo.

Freshwater fisheries in rivers such as the Wonnangatta, Dargo and Timbarra will also be included.

The East Gippsland Fishery Management Plan will cover all inland and estuarine fisheries located within the boundaries of the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority except Mallacoota Inlet, Lake Tyres and Gippsland Lakes.

The management arrangements for these fisheries are addressed in the Mallacoota Inlet Fisheries Reserve Management Plan, the Lake Tyers Fishery Reserve Management Plan and will be addressed in a future fishery management plan for the Gippsland Lakes.

Fisheries Victoria Acting Executive Director Anthony Hurst said the management plan steering committee involving anglers, other stakeholders and Fisheries Victoria staff will be hosting open public meetings.

“We are seeking a better understanding of the key issues and any suggestions which should be considered in preparing the new management plan,” Mr Hurst said.

“It will provide direction for the future management of recreational fisheries in East Gippsland for at least the next five years.

All meetings will commence at 7:00 pm and will be held at the following locations:

• Mallacoota – Tuesday, October 27, Mud Brick Hall, Maurice Avenue
• Bemm River – Wednesday, October 28, Community Centre, Roberts Road
• Orbost – Thursday, October 29, DPI Offices, 171 – 173 Nicholson Street
• Swifts Creek – Wednesday, November 4, Town Hall, Great Alpine Road
• Bairnsdale – Thursday, October 5, DPI Offices Room 2, 574 Main Street

In addition to these public meetings, a survey can be completed online or printed and returned to Fisheries Victoria. It is available at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing or by calling the Department of Primary Industries Customer Service Centre at 136 186.

“The rivers and estuaries of the East Gippsland Catchment provide some of the best recreational fishing experiences in Victoria.

“In peak holiday periods fishing tourism also provides a great economic boost for many regional businesses, including fishing and tackle shops, hotels and restaurants.

“The input of recreational fishers and other stakeholders is critical to developing an effective East Gippsland Fishery Management Plan.

“I strongly encourage anyone with an interest in recreational fishing to attend one of the forums”

For further information about these events, please visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing.