State Government announces fishing recovery package
The State Government has come to the aid of Richmond River fishers, with a recovery package of $130,000 to help the local industry manage the effects of recent floods, Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald announced today.
Mr Macdonald said discussions on further assistance for farmers affected by the flooding are continuing and praised Federal Member for Page Janelle Saffin for her efforts on behalf of those affected by the floods in her area.
He said the fishing recovery package would help fund the monitoring program being developed to assess the recovery of fish stocks in the Richmond River.
“Local fishers will conduct this program in collaboration with Department of Primary Industries (DPI) scientists to capitalise on the combination of scientific expertise and local knowledge of fish behaviour,” Mr Macdonald said.
“The monitoring survey, due to start on February 18, will use various commercial fishing methods to check the rejuvenation of fish populations.
“By engaging the commercial fishers in the monitoring program, we can be sure when the river is ready to open and at the same time provide some income for the fishers while the river is closed.
“Discussions will be held in coming days with commercial fishers to finalise the details of the timing, regularity and methodology of the monitoring program.
“The recent massive fish kill in the Richmond River and the fishing closure imposed on January 18 was devastating for those that relied on the river for their income — the priority now is to monitor the river and return it to fishing as soon as fish populations have recovered.
“The initial amount of $100,000 will be committed by the Iemma Government, with contributions being sought from the commercial and recreational trusts.
“If the Richmond River remains closed for an extended period, the Government will examine the prospect of extending the program.”
Mr Macdonald said commercial fishers had also been contracted in the fish clean-up efforts co-ordinated by Ballina Shire Council and funded by the State Government’s disaster relief fund.
“In addition, the State Government is helping to fund through the recreational fishing trust a new project worth $30,000 for flood remediation works on the Richmond River,” he said.
“The project seeks to ensure maximum benefit for fish and fishers by identifying existing floodgates in need of remediation and replacing them with tidal drum gates.
“A trial program has shown tidal drum gates help to facilitate fish passage and flush waters behind the flood gate which reduces the build up of ‘black water’.
“This initiative is aimed to reduce the current discharge of huge volumes of toxic water into the Richmond River following significant rainfall events.
“The project will be a collaborative effort between State and local government, landowners and the wider community and will be continually monitored.”
Affected commercial fishers can apply for assistance available under the Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements by contacting the Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.
Loans of up to $130,000 at 2.85 per cent interest, with a two-year interest and repayment-free period, are available to eligible fishers.
The monitoring program will begin on 18 February.
Mr Macdonald also said a Fish Kill Reference Group was being established involving local commercial and recreational fishers and NSW DPI staff to oversee the monitoring program, the recovery of fish stocks, and access arrangements through the reopening of the river.
