Solitary Islands Marine Park review
THE Solitary Islands Marine Park in northern NSW is currently under review.
For those unfamiliar with the park's history and overall size, it was the first marine park established in NSW and stretches over 75km from Muttonbird Island in the south to the Sandon River and Plover Island in the north. The SIMP incorporates estuaries to their tidal limit, foreshores to the mean high water mark and extends offshore to the 3 nautical mile state waters boundary.
With the SIMP currently under review, concerned local stakeholders comprising recreational and professional fishers, spearfishers, local clubs and businesses have formed a group to publicly oppose the proposed changes. In a bid to voice opposition to government on the expansion of the SIMP the website www.savesol.com features a quick link to a submission form that can be easily completed and lodged.
Recreational fishos and all opposed to further expansion of the Solitary Islands Marine Park are encouraged to complete submissions as soon as possible.
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concerned aussie that our rights are being eroded keep up the good fight jean
jean on 07-Aug-10 10:53 AM
Recreational fishing and associated sports have been hit hard enough. Those of us left in the boat manufacturing business have been decimated due to the excessive restrictions placed on those who love this life style. There is no serious proof of recreational fishing being responsible for depleting the species or damaging the fishing grounds or breeding areas. Since the implementation of fishing licenses we have created another beaurecatic income earner for 'the system' We have seen the demise of the professional fisherman, to some benefit we presume, however, we now face a continuing and ever increasing expansion of 'no fish'zones in all of the areas we have all grown up in and love. The associated Australian industries who train and employ many Australian workers, and generally support the infrastructures connected to the liesure marine and recreational fishing industries, generate a substantial amount of revenue by way of GST, RTA registrations, boat registrations, fishing licenses, fuel and associate costs, safety equipment, insurances etc. A large number of public servants, boating officers, surveyors, BSO's, water police, fisheries inspectors, sea rescue operations etc. are all supported by income derived from the public sector who buy and use recreational fishing associated equipment. This market is in serious decline as a direct result of the continual expansion of the very areas that attract human beings to this wonderful sport and life style. We strongly reccomend that the decision makers consider the ramifications of their decisions. You cannot possibly expect to continually draw taxes and income levies from the consumer and then remove the natural waters of our rivers and coastline from him to use as he wishes. Finally, almost all fishermen now respect the bag limits, minimum size of catch and release. We thank you for this oportunity to raise these issues and trust they reach the right ears. If we cannot fish in areas suitable for fishing, why do we have to maintain a fishing license? Mark Hookham
markham marine pty ltd on 14-Jul-10 08:37 AM
tell a friend
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