Labor floats new policy for fishing enthusiasts

QUEENSCLIFF and Point Richards boat ramps will undergo upgrades as part of a new policy by the Labor government that will benefit local families and recreational fishers.

A re-elected Andrews Government will fix boat ramps, abolish boat ramp parking and launching fees and ensure licensing and registration fees are spent on boating safety and facilities.

The new policy includes:
UPGRADING the Queenscliff boat ramp and Point Richards boat ramp.

ABOLISHING all boat ramp and parking fees – including those at Queenscliff – potentially saving local families hundreds of dollars a year on an annual parking permit.

A NEW fund to ensure all boat licenses and registration fees go to upgrading facilities.

The Labor Government is also investing $2.5 million to further improve fish habitat across Port Phillip with reef development and restoration.

Funding will be available to upgrade facilities at boat ramps on the Bellarine – such as fish cleaning tables and fishing platforms to support recreational fishers and fishing.

“I know so many people love fishing in the Bellarine – it’s a great place to put a line in – and we’re making it easier and more accessible to get more people out on the water,” Ms Neville said.

“Bellarine locals shouldn’t have to pay just to use a boat ramp, that’s why we’re scrapping fees to make boating more accessible.”

Ms Neville said the Bellarine had one of the highest proportions of recreational fishing license holders and boaters across the state.

The Labor Government will also invest in growing fish stocking by 10 million per year by 2022, building off the $46 million already invested in the Target One Million Program.

A new $200,000 Vic Fish Kids and a Fishing for All program will be established to encourage more people to get fishing out on the water.

Recreational fishers will also now be able to get their own recreational fishing number plates from VicRoads. These changes and investments build on the successful ending of commercial netting in Port Phillip – including Corio Bay – which, according to the government, has transformed fishing form recreational anglers.