Fishing forum to give anglers a voice
Posted on Monday, 20 February, 2012
FISHERS wanting a say in the future of their livelihoods are invited to a public meeting hosted by Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch, Senator Richard Colbeck and the Far North’s LNP candidates.
The Future of Fishing Forum aims to give recreation, sport and commercial fishers the opportunity to share their views on the challenges faced by the industry.
“Fishing is a part of the Far North Queensland culture,” Mr Entsch said.
“It’s a $200 million-plus industry that employs about 800 people.
“Fishing is a way of life, not just for commercial operators and their employees, but for the thousands of weekend warriors who head to the reef or rivers each weekend to wet the line for pure enjoyment.”
Senator Colbeck, the Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, will speak about the Coalition’s plans to improve conditions for the fishing industry.
LNP state candidates Gavin King (Cairns), Michael Trout (Barron River), Robyn Quick (Mulgrave) and David Kempton (Cook) also will attend the forum to speak about the party’s policies and initiatives and to listen to fishers.
Officials from the Queensland Seafood Industry Association will also be in attendance.
The Future of Fishing Forum will be held on Wednesday (February 22) from 1-2pm at the Cairns Cruising Yacht Club, 42-48 Tingira St, Portsmith.