WITH just over a month left of the public comment period, WA’s peak recreational fishing sector body Recfishwest is urging all fishers to make a submission on the Government’s proposed South Coast Marine Parks.
Fishos could lose access to fish a number of cherished beaches and offshore spots fished for generations if no- fishing zones go through as they have been proposed and Recfishwest says it’s crucial fishers stand up for fishing over the next few weeks by making a submission.
And while some people have reported finding the Government’s marine parks online submission process confusing, complex and difficult to navigate, Recfishwest says emailing submissions instead is completely acceptable, relatively easy and a good way to go.
Recfishwest operations manager Leyland Campbell said: “We need as many fishers as possible to make a submission telling the Government how important fishing in these places is to them to give us the best chance of getting a good outcome.
“Emailing your submission can be really easy – simply look at the green zones on DBCA’s map which is where fishing will be prohibited.
‘“If your favourite fishing spots or areas where you might want to fish in the future fall in these green areas, send an email to pscmp@dbca.wa.gov.au with the subject line “South Coast Marine Park Submission”. In your email say you want to be able to still fish in these areas and why this is important to you.
“Some people have told us they think they need to provide scientific evidence in their submission. But this simply isn’t the case – just telling the Government why being able to fish in these places is important to you, your family and friends makes your submission very valuable.”
For land-based fishing spots that fall in no fishing zones, fishers can also ask for 200m set-backs to be implemented to allow fishing off the shore to continue. This is something the Government have specifically asked for feedback on.
Recfishwest has a dedicated South Coast Marine Parks page on its website with tips and information to help fishers make a submission including a link to DBCA’s interactive marine parks map showing where all the no-fishing zones are being proposed. Fishers can also sign up for a free dedicated Recfishwest marine parks newsletter to be sent to their inboxes giving them all the latest developments and info on the issue.
“We’re here to help,” said Leyland. “Anyone can call us on 92436 3366 or email us at info@recfishwest.org.au and we can help you with your submission or any questions you may have.”
