Marine Park lock-outs announced for Sydney

By Scott Thomas | 16 August 2018

THE NSW Government has today unveiled final plans for its Hawkesbury Shelf marine bioregion assessment.

Detailed maps of the proposed Sydney Marine Park are now available detailing numerous sanctuary zones at popular rec fishing locations.

At a glance, areas such as Chowder Bay, Bottle and Glass Point, Camp Cove, Spring Cove in Sydney Harbour will be locked up, while further South, vast areas of the Royal National Park, Cape Banks and key fishing areas off Port Kembla will be off limits to anglers.

The response from today’s announcement was overwhelmingly negative amongst Sydney-based fishers and many questions have been raised over the proposals.

Established fishing guide Craig McGill raised questions over posessing rigged tackle in exclusion zones and thought several sanctuary zones needed “tweaking” to ensure a fairer share for anglers. He also believes issues around boating safety (safe anchorages, etc) need to be addressed before these plans are put in place.

“I think the minister has no idea about the dynamics of the Harbour. I don’t think he’s thought this through,” said McGill.

The Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW has urged concerned fishers to involved with the process before it's too late.

“If you have further concerns then get involved in one of the many public sessions listed or start raising your concerns verbally with friends, family, and then sharing such in writing with the Agencies involved NSWDPI and MEMA, your local Council, local State Political representative or the Ministers that oversee the NSW Marine Parks process,” said a spokesman from the RFA.

A detailed map and further information can be found here: https://www.marine.nsw.gov.au/key-initiatives/hawkesbury-shelf-marine-assessment

Take time to read the above information and make a submission before of 27th September 2018.

More to follow.