July 2, 2018 Local lobster program should continue on a permanent basis Shadow Minister for Fisheries, Ian Blayney has called on the State Government to make the Local Lobster Program permanent for the benefit of both the lobster fishing industry and the tourism sector in WA. Mr Blayney said the Local Access Trial rolled out in 2016 by the previous Liberal-led Government allowed each active commercial Western Rock Lobster fisher to sell 50 crayfish direct to the public. “I have been contacted by local restaurant operators who have been keen to express their support for the program to become permanent,” Mr Blayney said. “The program is win-win, it means local restaurants can afford to sell fresh lobster, fishers can participate in an additional marketplace and the extra catch fits comfortably within the total catch calculated. “Domestic market sales rose dramatically during the trial which shows that the industry saw it as a good opportunity, however it did not threaten the normality of the rock lobster industry. “The fact that fishers were able to find buyers as quickly as they did demonstrates there was a genuine demand from Western Australians for lobster.” Mr Blayney said roll out of this scheme on a permanent basis would not only benefit fishers and the industry but will also the broader economy by increasing access to a local delicacy for tourists. “It’s a good chance to promote tourism, especially in my electorate of Geraldton, which is often been referred to as ‘cray capital’,” Mr Blayney said. “Under a permanent program, tour operators and local restaurants serving tourists can work with local fishers to give the ultimate WA seafood experience. “Fresh seafood is very appealing to visitors, particularly those from Asia. “If the McGowan Government is serious about driving tourism in WA, this scheme should be considered on a permanent basis.” Media Contact |
