Tuesday 06 June, 2018 Support for seafood tourist trail Shadow Minister for Fisheries, Ian Blayney MLA backs the idea of a dedicated seafood tourist trail proposed by The WA Fishing Industry Council (WAFIC). “The State has a lot to offer in relation to seafood tourism and introducing a seafood trail would help to promote tourism in smaller regional towns as well as towns that already have an established reputation for seafood,” said Mr Blayney. “Some of the spots could include Geraldton Crayfish, sampling crab at Mandurah’s annual Crabfest, feasting on Exmouth prawns and tasting pearl meat in Broome. Boosting greater access to much loved seafood was a priority of the previous Liberal/National Government according to Mr Blayney. “The previous Government introduced a trial allowing western rock lobster sales direct from fishing boats and restaurants and allowed special tagged lobsters to be sold to the WA public and seafood retailers only. This gave locals and tourists new opportunities to enjoy one of WA’s favourite seafood. The Shadow Minister for Fisheries believes such a trail could be linked with information relating to food production and how to best cook the samples that are on offer. “Such a trail would be a good way to showcase businesses within the fishing and aquaculture industries. “People today are becoming increasingly aware of, and are taking an interest in, where and how the food they are consuming is produced and stocked. “Opening these businesses up for tourism would not only create greater awareness of the industry but would also provide additional revenue for small fishing towns. Mr Blayney said that the Abrohlos Islands in his electorate of Geraldton would be a location that could particularly take advantage of a seafood tourist trail along the West Coast. “The Abrohlos Islands are a hidden treasure in a brilliant location along the West coast and tourism at the islands has certainly increased over the last few years. “Game fishing off the Abrohlos Islands would be a good attraction to complement the crayfish dining outlets that are a popular option for many tourists.” Media Contact |
