Fisheries Victoria seeks public participation

The Victorian Government is encouraging recreational anglers to have a say in the development of the East Gippsland fishery management plan.

The plan will look at fisheries in rivers like the Mitchell, Nicholson and Tambo and in inlets like Sydenham and Marlo.

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, and the Lake Tyers Fishery Reserve management plan. A future fishery management plan for the Gippsland Lakes is under development.

Fisheries Victoria acting executive director Anthony Hurst said the management plan steering committee, which involved anglers, Fisheries Victoria staff, and other stakeholders, would host 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,” said Hurst.

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

The 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, 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 on 136 186.

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

“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, visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing.