Launch of 'FISHCARE WA' scheme to assist management of fish resources

20/12/95

Fisheries Minister Monty House today launched FISHCARE WA - a new initiative to assist in the management of fish resources and conservation of the aquatic environment.

FISHCARE WA provides grants of up to $3,000 to enable members of the community to undertake projects that will benefit the aquatic environment and fish stocks.

Mr House said the initiative was a firm commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of our fish stocks, the protection of their environment and to maximise the public benefits of fish resources.

"FISHCARE WA provides an innovative opportunity for community involvement and will help raise awareness that each of us can contribute to the protection and enhancement of vital aquatic resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations," he said.

"I encourage everyone, recreational fishermen, commercial fishermen, divers and interested community groups and individuals to identify ways they can be involved in this exciting new program."

Mr House said that a wide range of projects would be considered for funding.

Project examples might include habitat rehabilitation, clean-up of rivers and ocean fishing spots, education projects and materials which would promote understanding and access to the marine environment, the protection of local fish species or fishing spots, creating better access to fishing areas for elderly or disabled people, or information on how to avoid damaging fragile reef top organisms.

Mr House said the initial grants for FISHCARE WA projects included:

·       production of posters to help reduce the impact of fishing on cobbler stocks in the Mandurah region;

·       an information and education module describing the protected area of reef-top organisms and fish at Yallingup Reef;

·       permanent moorings to be established at key dive sites in King George Sound, Albany, to protect the marine environment from anchor damage;

·       an information and fish cleaning facility at Denham to provide a focal point for recreational fishing in the town;

·       a video to be produced at Exmouth about caring for your catch and improving survival rates of fish released from boats; and -

·       the production and distribution of recreational fishing guidlines for international ships visiting Pilbara ports.

Other projects being prepared include displays in Kununurra region highlighting the importance of barramundi to the region and a display at Esperance jetty explaining the importance of fish and the aquatic environment to the community and visitors emphasising how to care for the marine environment.

Mr House encouraged people interested in FISHCARE WA to contact: Jeff Camkin, Project Manager, Office of the Minister for Fisheries (09) 481 2044 or fax (09) 481 2151.

Fishcare WA will complement the expansion in community education and awareness programs and the recent establishment of a Fish and Habitat Protection Program at the Fisheries Department.

The department already co-ordinates many programs which aim to promote community awareness, compliance with fish conservation controls and the development of fishing ethics. 

The successful Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officer program has shown what is possible when the public become more involved in caring for fish and fish habitats.

The Fisheries Portfolio Review last year highlighted the need to address the growing community interest in management and conservation of the marine environment.

FISHCARE WA will help meet that challenge. It will be further assisted through the creation of a national Fishcare program which the Federal Government is currently formulating in liaison with the States.

"WA will continue to play a leading role in the further development of the national program and responsible fisheries management through community-based initiatives," Mr House said.

Media contact: Will Henwood  481 2044