2019-07-18 OM Agenda - Item 1 - Attachment 1 - Noosa Fishing Futures

arrangements for many fisheries are currently set at a state-wide level (e.g. recreational bag and size limits,
commercial endorsements accessing entire east coast). Many stakeholders, however, are seeking a more
regional approach to fisheries management. This is often seen as a way to address localised social, economic
or environmental issues, which are difficult to address at a state-wide level (e.g. regional quotas and zoning to
address resource sharing within and between sectors). Moreton Bay is a popular adjacent to the primary
population area of South East Queensland. The commercial catch from Moreton Bay comes from a variety of
different methods including otter trawl, beam trawl, tunnel netting, gill netting, line and stocks a range of local
markets and fish and chip shops. There is also a significant worm and crab fishery operating within the
Bay. Many of the commercially targeted species are also taken by recreational fishers so there is significant
competition for access to fisheries resources. The fishery is also home to important traditional fishing by
Aboriginal groups. Given the demand for fisheries resources from this area, it is also susceptible to localised
depletion issues. The Working Group has met three times since the meetings commenced in September 2018
so it is early days. The outcomes of the WG process will be important to Noosa Council in determining if
regional management is a valid option at some point in the future. For more information on the Working Group
including the membership go to:

 https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/fisheries/sustainable/sustainable-fisheries-strategy/fishery-
                 working-groups/moreton-bay-working-group/mbwg-terms-of-reference




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