SOUTHERN Port Phillip Bay anglers are invited to hear the “Big Fisherman” Rex Hunt and fisheries experts discuss the removal of commercial net fishing and the health of key bay species.
They will be speaking at a conference, 5.30-9pm, Friday 12 August, at the Altona Theatre.
“We’re keen to share the latest findings from our work in the bay and outline the substantial progress made this year in removing 33 of 43 commercial netters – the flagship commitment in the State Government’s $46 million Target One Million plan,” Fisheries Victoria executive director Travis Dowling said.
“Presentations from experts will cover kingfish and southern calamari research, which has been funded by fishing licence fees, along with habitat improvement efforts in the bay, such as shellfish reef restoration and recreational fishing reefs.”
VRFish’s Dallas D’Silva will discuss the results of the latest Ernst and Young economic study on recreational fishing in Victoria.
Radio 3AW’s David Kramer, who presents the Talking Fishing segment, will share his views on the removal of commercial net fishing “and the exciting times ahead for saltwater anglers in the bay”.
A panel discussion will take questions from the audience allowing everyone an opportunity to have their say on all things fishing.
Mr Dowling said the bay conference would build on the success of last year’s Talk Wild Trout conference at Mansfield, which attracted hundreds of freshwater anglers from across the state.
“We’ll be repeating that conference in November and adding a third to the calendar focusing on Murray cod, at Shepparton, in December,” he said.
Those attending the bay conference should register to assist with event logistics and help organisers cater for a light meal at the interval. Email improving.fishing@ecodev.vic.gov.au
Learn more about the bay conference, including speakers and themes, at agriculture.vic.gov.au/bayconference.