Communities, fishers and marine parks to benefit from funding

Minister Ian Hunter

Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation

Three projects on Kangaroo Island will receive funding in round one of the Recreational Fishing Grants Programme.

Valued at $2.25 million over three years, the programme supports projects to improve recreational fishing experiences and sustainable fishing practices, upgrade infrastructure and offer specialised training.

The grants are part of a $3.25 million package of measures announced by the State Government at the 2014 state election to enhance recreational fishing in South Australia.

Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter said successful projects in round one include upgrading and installing infrastructure, improving access to recreational fishing locations, holding family-friendly events and promoting recreational fishing tourism.

“The great thing about many of these projects is that as well as creating work for locals across the state, we are seeing councils getting on board and looking to improve community access to our system of marine parks,” he said.

“For example, in Port Wakefield and Kangaroo Island we have received applications to upgrade fishing and tourism infrastructure in and around the parks.”

RecFish SA Acting-Chair Ian Fitzgerald said the grants would provide significant benefits for many recreational fishers in South Australia, as well as their local communities.

“This is a positive initiative from the State Government; not only does it recognise the economic and lifestyle benefits of recreational fishing, it also takes local, community-generated ideas and makes them a reality,” he said.

Funding in round one totals $557,170 and will benefit communities across South Australia.

Successful applications will support projects in the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges, Yorke Peninsula, SA Murray-Darling Basin, South East and Eyre Peninsula.

Mr Hunter said on Kangaroo Island a grant of $14,900 will surface an existing breakwater at American River, creating a walkway to allow safe and easy access to this popular recreational fishing location.

“I’m pleased to see such a positive response to the programme, with more than eighty proposals submitted for consideration,” he said.

“This is all about giving a boost to local regional economies and encouraging participation in recreational fishing, including in and around our beautiful marine parks.”

Sanctuary zones – where fishing is restricted – take up only six percent of South Australia’s coastal waters, and recreational fishing can be enjoyed in the rest of the state’s waters including public jetties, breakwaters and popular beaches.

Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to apply in the next round of the Recreational Fishing Grants Programme.