Media release Friday, 2 March 2007
Park Plan for Port Stephens - Great Lakes starts April: Macdonald
The zoning plan for the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park will commence on 21 April this year, the NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald announced today.
“We listened carefully to what the local community had to say, and the start date of 21 April was chosen because it comes after the summer holiday peak and after a number of key recreational fishing events in the area,” the Minister said.
“The kick off date will be accompanied by an extensive educational and advisory campaign, including production of 50,000 brochures for distribution through more than 100 outlets across the region.
“Signage will also be installed throughout the marine park area, including boundary identification signs as well as general education and information signs at boat ramps and other key sites.”
Mr Macdonald said marine park officers will also be conducting regular patrols in the park to provide on the water advice and information to people fishing, boating and sightseeing.
“The emphasis of the patrols will be to educate people about the marine park and the new rules,” he said.
Labor Candidate for Port Stephens, Jim Arneman welcomed the announcement saying he had worked closely with the local community to ensure the Iemma Government came up a final plan that took into account the needs of the park users.
“I’ve maintained a close interest in the development of the park and I am pleased to see that a common sense approach has been adopted here, with a sensible and fair zone plan starting in April,” he said.
Mr Macdonald thanked Mr Arneman for his input saying he had worked tirelessly with his office to get the best possible outcome for the people of Port Stephens, even as recently as last week to get a fair deal for residents at Evens Point.
Chair of the Advisory council on Recreational Fishing, Bruce Schumacher said he had asked that the date be put back until after the completion of the current fishing tournaments in Port Stephens.
“With so many recreational angers going to Port Stephens in the coming weeks, I am glad the date has been put back to minimise any confusion during the early days of the park” he said.
The Minister also said a further $70,000 will be spent on a State-wide marine park education program for school children.
“The younger generations are the ones that will possibly reap the most benefit from the marine park in the future”, he added.
“Kids have a genuine interest in the ocean, beaches as well as conserving fish and other marine life”.
Contact: Jamie Gibson 0408 961 367