From the Department of Primary Industries

Wednesday 14 November 2007

FISHING LICENCE FEES CONTRIBUTE TO FISH CLEANING TABLE AT LIMEBURNERS POINT

A new environmentally-friendly fish cleaning table at Limeburners Point is complete and now available for public use, Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Dr Peter Appleford, said today.

Dr Appleford said the fish cleaning facility was the first of its kind in the Geelong region, and would benefit not only anglers, but the gardens in neighbouring parkland.

He said the sturdy construction included the cleaning table made from marine grade stainless steel, shelter and seats made from forged aluminium, and a push button time limited water tap.

“What distinguishes this fish cleaning table from others is that fish waste and water will be directed into an existing waste collection system to ensure the facility benefits, and not detracts, from the local environment,” Dr Appleford said.

“Older fish cleaning tables have caused concern about their impact on the environment when waste is dumped onto the shore or into waterways.

“This state-of-the-art facility will allow waste and water from the table to flow straight into a septic tank below and on to an adjacent treatment plant that combines with public toilet waste from a nearby facility.

“The treated waste is then pumped up into Easter Gardens above the site, and used as part of an underground irrigation system that waters the plants in this public reserve through a drip system.

Dr Appleford said the solid waste will be collected every few years and can be used as high quality fertiliser.

He said the table is the final stage in the redevelopment of Limeburners Point into the ultimate boat launching spot with all the facilities needed by local and visiting anglers keen on chasing snapper, flathead, King George whiting and Australian salmon in Corio Bay.

Construction of the $15,000 fish cleaning table was managed by the City of Greater Geelong Council and funded in part with $5,500 from Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence revenue through the annual Recreational Fishing Grants Program.

Since the commencement of the Recreational Fishing Grants Program in 2001/2002, almost 200 projects totalling over $6.7 million have been funded to improve freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities throughout Victoria.

For more information about Your Licence Fees at Work visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork or ring the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.