By JOLENE OGLE
THE net has been cast wide for Fisheries Queensland, which is likely to undergo major reform following the release of a report that outlines 80 substantial recommendations.
It has vowed to rip off the Band-Aids that have been patching up policy in the past, with a view to boosting fish stocks and more closely monitoring commercial catches.
All Noosa locals are invited to have their say on the recommendations and independent report into Queensland’s fisheries management, with all aspects of commercial, recreational and traditional fishing open for scrutiny.
Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Bill Byrne said the report, prepared by MRAG Asia Pacific, recommends significant long-term changes to the current fisheries management arrangements.
“The report makes 80 substantial recommendations, including significantly altering the allocation of fisheries resources,” he said.
The government has released the previously restricted report and is encouraging locals to have their say on the recommendations for commercial, recreational and traditional fishing.
The report states the current fisheries management system is “by any measure, exceedingly complex and inadequate to deal with the modern challenges”.
“Many stakeholders have characterised the current arrangements as ‘Band-Aids upon Band-Aids’ and this is not too far from the mark,” the report said.
From the 17 public meetings with 500 attendees and 280 written submissions received from fishers, environmentalists, government agencies and others during last year’s review process, the report found Queenslanders want clear government policy framework and unambiguous legislation.
Healthy fish stocks and aquatic ecosystems, secure rights to a sustainable share of the catch, timely and transparent decision-making, and sufficient resourcing to meet management needs were among the top demands from review respondents.
The recommendations include developing a credible system to independently verify information reported in commercial catch and effort logbooks, the re-establishment of the independent scientific observer program, plus all buyers of commercial fish in Queensland should be registered and have an obligation to periodically report their purchases to Fisheries Queensland (FQ).
If the recommendations are adopted they are expected to benefit commercial, recreational, and customary fishers as well as future generations and the environment with improved maintenance of fish stock.
Noosa commercial, recreational and traditional fishers are invited to have their say, along with locals who want to share their view.
To complete the review survey visit www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.
