News Release December 23, 2009
Don't forget your first bit of fishing tackle this summer - A marine park zoning guide
NSW marine park sanctuaries provide
the
highest level of protection to marine
life and
habitat
The NSW Marine Parks Authority has issued a reminder to all holidaymakers intending to venture into one of the beautiful marine parks along the NSW coast this summer to remember their zoning plan guides.
An MPA spokeswoman said NSW parks were multiple use parks, which meant most areas within the parks allowed fishing and other recreational activities.
She said however a small percentage of the parks were zoned as sanctuaries where no fishing or collecting was permitted.
“Sanctuary zones or ‘no-take’ areas provide the highest level of protection to marine life and habitat, and are also very important for marine research and monitoring.
“Sanctuary zones vary in location from marine park to marine park and zoning guides are an essential way to ensure you don’t accidentally venture into one of these important conservation areas.
“We want everyone to have a fun, and a safe holiday. Our marine park officers will be on the water to answer any of your questions about the park and the marine environment.
“Fishing and collecting in a sanctuary attracts an on-the-spot fine of $500 so it’s a really good idea to pick up a zoning guide from one of the many accommodation and information centres, general stores and fishing supply outlets around the marine parks.”
She said the zoning guides could also be picked up from local marine parks offices and were online at www.mpa.nsw.gov.au
“Education about the zones is a high priority for the Marine Parks Authority and we’ll be doing our best over summer to spread the message not only to fishers and recreational users along the coast but also to fishers in larger metropolitan centres.”Media Contact: Tonia Liosatos
Telephone: 02 6495 5024
Mobile: 0418 820 504
After Hours: 02 9995 5347
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