WeFish

VRFish backs Victorian Government push on southern bluefin tuna

VRFish, Victoria’s recreational fishing peak body, has echoed calls to the Commonwealth Government for assurance that the recreational fishing community be guaranteed long term access to the southern bluefin tuna fishery in the south west.

‘It’s extremely heartening that the Victorian Coalition Government recognises the importance of this fishery,’ said Christopher Collins, Executive Officer of VRFish. ‘It gives recreational fishers some surety that the Government recognises our valuable contribution to the economies of regional communities such as Portland as we enjoy our pursuit.’

The southern bluefin tuna fishery is extremely popular with recreational fishers, many of whom spend considerable time and money in the south west of the state. ‘Almost every Monday over the past few months, VRFish has received emails from our members, with photos and reports from a fantastic weekend chasing the bluefin,’ said Mr Collins. ‘We applaud Minister Walsh in his endeavour to ensure that this can continue through allowing full access to this magnificent fishery on behalf of Victoria’s recreational fishers.’

‘VRFish commends the great work conducted by Fisheries Victoria which quantifies the popularity of this fishery,’ said Mr Collins.
‘It’s particularly pleasing to witness such strong commitment to a fishery and a community that means so much to the many hundreds of thousands of Victorians that enjoy recreational fishing.’


http://vrfish.com.au/wp-content/uploads/120628-Southern-Bluefin-Tuna1.pdf