Fishing forum to make a splash with local boaties and businesses

Published on 03 August 2017

Rockhampton Regional Council is partnering with InfoFish Australia to deliver a forum in Rockhampton this month to update the community on the net free zones (NFZ) introduced 18 months ago.

Local manager of Infofish Australia Bill Sawynok said after just 18 months, it was clear the NFZ were having an effect.

“A clear example is that the catch rate for legal Barramundi in the Fitzroy River this season is currently 1.2 fish per fisher per day and that’s the first time the catch rate has exceeded 1.0 fish in the past 20 years.

“This forum will not only provide an update on the NFZ but will outline how improvements in infrastructure around the region will assist the development of the recreational fishing tourism industry,”

“We’d like for existing and prospective businesses in the recreational fishing industry to come along to the forum, hear about what has been done and where everything is going.”

“Apart from tackle stores this is a call out to accommodation providers, restaurants and those interested in setting up a business in the recreational fishing industry to come along,” Mr Sawynok said.

Chair of Council's Infrastructure Committee Councillor Tony Williams said Council had adopted a Recreational Fishing Strategy to take advantage of the NFZ and promote jobs and fishing tourism.

“We have some of the best fishing in the country right here on our doorstep and Council is actively working to capitalise on the opportunity not only for our local boaties but for the lucrative fishing tourism market.

“Increased catch rates from the NFZ combined with the rollout of new infrastructure and the steps Council is taking to promote our Region are all laying the groundwork for a whole new industry in our Region,” Cr Williams said.

Council is sponsoring the forum which is being held on August 31st and September 1st in Rockhampton.