New era for Victoria's freshwater anglers

The Minister Responsible for Fisheries, Bob Cameron, today opened floodgates to the refurbished fish rearing ponds at the Department of Primary Industries in Snobs Creek that will usher in a new era for Victoria's freshwater anglers.

He said the Bracks Government recognised that recreational fishing was a major social and economic contributor to provincial communities and a significant tourist drawcard.

"That's why we've committed an extra $3.2 million over the next four years to boost family friendly recreational fishing opportunities and tourism outcomes," Mr Cameron said.

"One part of the project will be the establishment of five ‘Premier Participation Waters' across the State where large two year old trout, around a kilogram in weight, will be stocked for anglers.

"Refurbishing these ponds provides Fisheries Victoria with the resources to confidently tackle the substantial task of growing these fish which will be up to 20 times the size of trout that are normally stocked."

Last year, the Bracks Government released 1.3 million fish – the highest ever level of stocking by a Victorian Government and 30 per cent above the average fish stocking levels of the previous government.

Today's event followed the Government's decision to bring the production of trout and salmon back ‘in house', reversing what had become an increasingly unpopular experiment implemented by the previous Kennett Government about ten ago.

"Recreational fishing contributes significantly to local economies throughout regional Victoria with an estimated value of more than $400 million across the state," Mr Cameron said.