Queensland’s Spanish mackerel fishery will not face a years-long total closure as part of efforts to rebuild stocks that have fallen to 17 percent of original levels.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said a complete closure of the fishery for a period of years had been ruled out because of the impact it would have on fishers, jobs and communities.
“Initial consultation resulted in more than 1400 submissions, mostly from recreational fishers, and the key message from this consultation is that the community wants action taken to rebuild these stocks for the future,” Mr Furner said.
“At the request of the commercial fishing industry, we held direct meetings with commercial fishers and charter fishing operators who are most likely to be affected by future management changes to rebuild this fishery.
“Consultation also occurred with representatives of the recreational sector and fishing tackle industry.
“We have now carefully assessed everybody’s input to develop more detailed rebuilding options, which are needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery.”
Mr Furner said the Queensland Government is now seeking final feedback from recreational and commercial fishers on options for rebuilding the Spanish mackerel stocks.