QUEENSLAND’S Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey has invited fishos to be involved in a consultation process that will evaluate the importance of rec fishing to tourism in the northern state.
The QLD government says it is committed to enhancing and growing recreational fishing tourism. The Assistant Minister for Tourism, Gavin King is helping a working group of government backbenchers to oversee the consultation over March-April 2013.
Objective
To investigate the market gaps and potential for growth in the recreational fishing tourism sector and provide recommendations to achieve that growth
1) Recreational fishing events
a. What are the rec fishing events & competitions in respective areas?
b. What is the potential for these events to grow into the future?
c. How do we grow these events into the future?
2) “Hero” recreational fishing spots
a. What are the key (hero) recreational fishing spots in respective areas?
b. How are these destinations marketed to the fishing community?
c. What is required in terms of access and infrastructure to enhance and grow these recreational fishing spots?
3) Charter boat sector
a. Which charter fishing businesses currently operate in respective areas?
b. What is the potential for them to grow?
c. What are the impediments to growth and how can they be addressed?
4) Other Issues
All issues will be noted for their potential for tourism growth. Where there is overlap with Fisheries Queensland, information will also be provided to the Fisheries Minister.
The Working Group will conduct community and industry consultation until April 22, 2013.
Intended outcomes
Feedback from Working Group members will be compiled during May and presented for final approval to the Tourism Minister and Working Group in late May. The final report and recommendations will then be forwarded to the Premier, Tourism Minister, Fisheries Minister and other relevant Ministers for their consideration and decisions.
Interested persons can contact their state MP and/or the Assistant Tourism Minister Gavin King via email to share their views and ideas about recreational fishing and how it can grow tourism in Queensland.
