MINISTER FOR PRIMARY INDUSTRY AND FISHERIES

10 July 2008

Recreational fishing in the Territory is set to get even better with the start of a buyback of

commercial barramundi fishing licences, Fisheries Minister Chris Natt said today.

“We’re delivering on an election promise to buyback more commercial fishing licences –

this is great news for anyone who loves to wet a line in the Territory,” Mr Natt said.

“The buyback of three commercial licences will ensure greater opportunities for

recreational anglers, and help sustain the commercial catch.

“This Government has already bought back inshore commercial coastal net fishing

licences and closed Darwin Harbour and Shoal Bay to make recreational fishing even

better.

“Now we seek expressions of interest from commercial barramundi fishermen who wish

to participate in another voluntary licence buyback.

“My Department is contacting all commercial barramundi fishermen to commence

licence buyback negotiations.

“Fishing is the lure of the Territory and remains a family favourite.

“That is why we continue to work hard to make fishing in the Territory even better.

“Barramundi is the icon fish of the Territory and we want to ensure the great fishing

today continues into the future – that is why we are buying back commercial licences.

“We have also increased our fishing infrastructure budget to $1 million for the benefit of

recreational fishermen.

“Boat ownership here is the highest in the country and more than 100,000 tourists who

come here say they wet a line during their stay.”

Contact: Edwin Edlund 0401 119 563