THE state government will undertake further community consultation to determine final arrangements for the Batemans Marine Park’s amnesty on recreational line fishing.
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Draft regulations have been prepared following the government’s decision last year to retain an amnesty allowing shore-based recreational line fishing at 10 sites while enforcing sanctuary zone rules at 20 sites.
The proposal will allow for continued recreational fishing in rezoned areas.
The draft regulations were informed by the independent scientific advice of the Marine Estate Expert Knowledge Panel, which determined recreational shore-based line fishing could be a low-risk activity.
Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the proposed changes would affect the Batemans, Cape Byron, Solitary Islands and Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Parks, while all sanctuary zones in the Jervis Bay Marine Park would continue.
“The proposed changes are for 10 sanctuary zone sites to be rezoned to habitat protection, which makes shore-based recreational line fishing lawful at these sites,” he said.
“However, in each marine park in which such fishing will be allowed at some sites, there are other multiple sites at which fishing is permanently prohibited.
“This outcome strikes a balance between ensuring appropriate environmental protection and enabling low-impact recreational fishing.”
Community members are encouraged to comment on the draft regulations before submissions close November 13.
Copies of the draft regulations and a discussion paper are at www.marine.nsw.gov.au.
Submissions can be made via an online survey, emailing contact.us@marine.nsw.gov.au or writing to C/- Marine Environment, Locked Bay 1, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, marked “Ocean Beaches and Headlands – Draft Regulations”.