A DISALLOWANCE motion moved by the LNP to overturn recent Net Free Areas in Queensland has been defeated overnight.
The motion by member for Nanango Deb Frecklington against the proposed Net Free Area commitment from the ALP showed complete discarded to letters of support from the likes of Queensland Tourism Industry Council, The caravan Parks Association of Queensland, The Caravan Industry of Australia, the Tackle Industry of Queensland, WWF, AMCS, Australia Marine Conservation Society, Care Fish, Mackay Recreational Fishers Alliance Inc. Fraser Coast Fishing Alliance Inc. Queensland Amateur Fishing Clubs Association, ANSA Australia National Sports Fishing Association Ltd. and many other high profile endorsements.
This move by the LNP opposition was an attempt to derail the legislation needed to implement the three Net Free Areas in Queensland and clarified its position in relation to recreational fishing.
The final count saw 46 “No” votes from Labor, Katter Party and Independents, while 41 “I” votes came from the LNP.
The result means Labor’s election promise to fully implement three commercial net free zones at St Helens Beach to Cape Hillsborough, Keppel Bay to Fitzroy River and Trinity Bay will go ahead as planned from the 1st of November 2015.
Net free Area campaigner and chairman of the Fraser Coast Fishing Alliance, Scott Mitchell told Fishing World the outcome is an important win for Queensland’s rec fishing community.
“It’s a turning point in Queensland fisheries management,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell said this decision will assist future discussions around the Great Sandy Marine Park when negotiations begin next year in line with the full term 10 year review. While there’s fierce opposition from a vocal minority, Mitchell is confident overwhelming support will result in a positive outcome for the Marine Park and other areas of the state, including Moreton Bay.
More to follow.
