Victorian anglers have sighed with relief after the Allan Labor Government was forced to backdown on its intention to ban fishing competitions.
A hard-fought grassroots campaign led by Corinella Boating and Angling Club, women in fishing advocate, Amanda Keilar, and The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, achieved its aim of pushing Labor to announce the fishing competition exemption.
The drafted new animal welfare laws were set to ban fishing competitions with clubs and anglers facing massive fines – from $58,000 for clubs and $12,000 for individuals.
The Gippsland petition, protesting Labor’s move, attracted almost 3000 signatures.
Ms Bath congratulated the Gippsland fishing community for leading the charge and forcing the Allan Labor Government to listen and act on their concerns.
“Any consideration of fining Victorians for organising or participating in fishing competitions is a total overreach, and it should have never been contemplated,” Ms Bath said.
“The failure to immediately rule out the ban shows the Allan Labor Government was testing the waters to see if they could impose it on a legitimate recreation activity.
“The Nationals will continue to support recreation and sport anglers, and recognise the significant contribution clubs, charter operators and small businesses make to our local communities.
“Fishing is an inclusive and accessible activity that can be enjoyed by all Victorians, it should be encouraged, and its future never threatened.”
