Fishermen Beached By Marine Plan

Newcastle Herald

Tuesday October 11, 2005

By MELISSA CHAIN State Political Reporter

A RECREATIONAL fishing tour operator based at Salamander Bay says his livelihood may be under threat from the State Government's proposed marine park but believes any compensation is unlikely.

Only commercial fishermen receive compensation from the State Government when marine parks affect their livelihoods.

But John Aracsy has operated Johno's Getaways Beach Fishing 4x4 Tours since 1998.

He takes out groups of up to 12 for two-hour or four-hour trips to Stockton Bight.

"I foster the idea of catch and release," Mr Aracsy said.

If the marine park goes ahead it could stretch from Stockton to Nambucca Heads, on the Mid-North Coast.

Mr Aracsy said if the marine park's sanctuary zones were established in the region's prime fishing spots, such as Stockton, his business would face closure.

Sanctuary zones make it illegal for any activity that affects marine ecosystems, including fishing.

The Government is likely to set up a reported $10 million commercial fishing licence buy-back scheme if the marine park goes ahead in the Manning district.

© 2005 Newcastle Herald

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