State Budget 2011-12: Building the State - Kimberley catches significant funding allocation for fisheries

The Kimberley region has netted significant funding for Department of Fisheries managed projects - with the department receiving an allocation of $2.3million to deliver its part of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy.

Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said the money would enhance the department’s compliance capability in the Eighty Mile Beach Marine Park between Port Hedland and Broome.

“The State Government will invest in projects that will build the Kimberley region and ensure a sustainable future for our marine and freshwater ecosystems,” Mr Moore said.

“The funding will allow two extra fisheries and marine officers in the region.”

The Minister said there was also funding in the coming four years to develop a number of fishing initiatives, including an education program and stock enhancements.

Mr Moore said $1.1million during the next four years would support a Kimberley marine education program for recreational fishers and charter operators.

“Tourism WA and the Department of Environment and Conservation will undertake this program in a partnership,” he said.

“Recreational fishing in the Kimberley will also benefit from $695,000 set aside in the Budget and forward estimates, to allow the stocking of barramundi in Lake Kununurra.

“It is important to explore the opportunities that fish enhancement projects can deliver to recreational fishing, including the possibility of creating new inland fisheries.”

Monday 23 May 2011