From the Department of Primary Industries

Wednesday, 19 December 2007

YOUR FISHING LICENCE FEES AT WORK AT CLIFTON CREEK

Recreational anglers can now look forward to improved fishing access to Clifton Creek near
Bairnsdale, following the installation of three fishing platforms, Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Dr Peter Appleford, said today.

“The East Gippsland Shire Council managed the construction of the three fishing platforms along the lower sections of Clifton Creek to improve access for shore-based anglers keen on chasing bream, luderick or flathead,” Dr Appleford said.

He said the new platforms offer environmental benefits too, by reducing bank erosion and thus improving the overall aquatic health of the river.

The three platforms, best accessed from Eastwood Estate, are adjacent to recent urban
development and are linked by a walking track.

Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence revenue funded the construction of the $20,000 platforms through the annual Recreational Fishing Grants Program.

Funding from the last round of the Australian Government’s Recreational Fishing Community Grants Program will see another three fishing platforms constructed along the creek’s foreshore over the next six months.

Since the commencement of the Victorian 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 in Victoria.

Incorporated bodies, registered companies and government/statutory bodies can apply for a grant in one of four categories:

• recreational fishing access and facilities (but not recreational boating-related infrastructure
such as boat launching ramps);
• recreational fisheries' sustainability and habitat improvement including fish stocking;
• recreational fisheries research; and
• recreational fisheries-related education, information and training.

Submissions must be received by 29 February 2008, however those that relate to fish stocking are required by mid January 2008 and should be discussed with the Victorian Recreational Fishing peak body (VRFish) on (03) 9686 7077 before making a submission.

For more information about the Program or previously funded projects visit
www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork or phone the Department of Primary Industries Customer Service Centre on 136 186.