Queensland communities have received $721,000 in funding from the Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) scheme this year. Almost 2 million native fish fingerlings, purchased with SIP scheme funds from last financial year, were used to help restock impoundments (dams) across the state.
Managing director of Fisheries Queensland Jim Groves said the SIP scheme, said that this scheme allowed local and visiting anglers to access quality fisheries resources year round. He added that this boost not only fishing but also tourism and jobs, and an increased turnover for businesses.
Emerald fish stocking group President Peter Day said his community had only recently become involved in the SIP scheme and were excited about the future. He informed that they are using the SIP scheme funds to help stock Fairbairn Dam with barramundi because it’s a popular fish for anglers and a drawcard for tourists.
He added that due to SIP scheme they have released 60,000 barramundi fingerlings into the dam and we hope to increase that number in the coming years. Recreational Fishing policy officer Jenny Keys from Fisheries Queensland said 350,000 permits had been sold since the beginning of the SIP scheme in 2000 and all the communities involved continued to benefit socially and economically.
