Tuesday 6 June 2006

Recreational vessel registrations in the Cairns area are on the increase and in the lead up to the Queen’s Birthday long weekend the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) is calling on Cairns boaties to pick up their free Marine Park zoning map.

GBRMPA Operations Director Mick Bishop said Queensland Transport figures confirm that recreational vessel registrations in Cairns have been on the increase.

“There has been a 15 per cent increase in recreational vessel registrations in the last five years and an increase of 7 per cent since mid 2004.

“This means we are seeing more people out on the water than ever before.”

Mr Bishop said the upcoming long weekend will provide one of the first opportunities for far north Queensland anglers to get out on the water following the poor fishing opportunities brought about by cyclone Larry, cyclone Monica and prolonged heavy rain.

“We are expecting a busy weekend on the water and urge boaties and anglers to consult zoning maps prior to heading out on the water and ensure they take their free map with them.

“We want you to have a great time on the water so make sure you know where you can go and what you can do and take care when out on the water,” he said.

It is important for boaties and anglers to familiarise themselves with the legislation and the different guidelines governing Green, Yellow and Blue zones.

The zones help to protect the biodiversity and ecology of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding marine ecosystems. Strong penalties apply for breaches to Marine Park legislation.

Mr Bishop said there are a range of free zoning guides and maps widely available from bait and tackle shops, visitor information centres, ship chandlers and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol offices. Alternatively users can contact the GBRMPA on 1800 990 177 for a free map.