Launch of patrol vessel for Fisheries volunteers at Hillarys Boat Harbour

8/3/98

Fisheries Western Australia's highly successful volunteer program received a major boost today with the launch of a new patrol vessel at the Hillarys Boat Harbour by Fisheries Minister Monty House.

The 5.2m 'Sparidae' will be used by Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers for patrols mainly in the Swan and Canning Rivers.

Mr House said the vessel, valued at about $40,000, was funded through industry sponsorship including its design, materials and construction, paintwork, electrical fitting, trailer and insurance.

Powered by a new 4-stroke 75hp motor, sponsored by Fisheries WA, the vessel is painted bright yellow to match the colour of VFLO uniforms.

"The vessel will be used primarily for river and estuary patrols, making it easier for the volunteers to approach recreational fishers at jetties, in boats and along the banks of the river," Mr House said.

"It is estimated that the boat will enable VFLOs to cover the same amount of water in one-fifth of the time a patrol usually takes along the shore, thus greatling improving their efficiency.

"The vessel will also be a very visual reminder for estuarine and coastal recreational fishers that help is close at hand if they are ever unsure of bag and size limits, or if they need fishing tips."

Mr House said that the boat might also be used to assist with research programs in which the VFLOs were heavily involved, including the ongoing tailor research now into its fourth year.

He said the expanding VFLO program, the first of its kind in Australia, played an important role in improving community and fisher awareness of fishing rules and encouraged the adoption of a strong conservation ethic.

There are more than 200 VFLOs throughout Western Australia, with 72 in the Perth metropolitan region.

Last financial year VFLOs made nearly 26,000 personal contacts with recreational fishers through patrols, talks and fishing clinics. There are now 11 VFLO units in major regional recreational fishing centres across the State.

"With more than 600,000 recreational fishers in WA, management of our fish stocks is of critical importance," Mr House said.

"Fishers must be made to feel they are part of a team looking after our fish resources.

"The VFLOs, through their liaison activities, help to build support for Fisheries WA's management of recreational fishing." Sparidae is the family name for black bream, tarwhine and pink snapper, which are among the most popular catches of recreational fishers in the metropolitan region.

Media contact: Julie Cole [08] 9481 2044