The McGowan Government has committed $305,000 to undertake an economic analysis of the freshwater recreational fishing sector and develop a business case to upgrade the Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre to boost trout restocking programs and tourism across the South-West.
Owned and operated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre is the largest freshwater hatchery and research facility in Western Australia.
The business case will look into developing plans for expanding the centre that includes upgrades to existing facilities such as ponds, the hatchery, management systems and offices, as well as the construction of a new trout yearling nursery to increase production and supply of fish stocks.
The upgrades would support research that demonstrates how releasing larger fish improves survival rates and in turn, enhances recreational fishing experiences.
It will also examine the feasibility of a new interactive educational tourism attraction and aquarium connecting the science and history of trout and marron fishing, along with the unique aquatic flora and fauna, of South-West forests.
A tourism experience underpinned by strong economic analysis would provide the opportunity for private investment to support industry and community development in Pemberton.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will develop the business case in consultation with the South West Development Commission and other regional stakeholders.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Trout fishing is a major drawcard for visitors to the South-West, injecting around $20 million into the regional economy every year.
"Investing in upgrades to regional infrastructure is important to support research, create jobs and drive opportunities for regional tourism.
"The McGowan Government is committed to investing in projects which support the growth of our regional economies and communities, and pave the way for private investment."
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"This investment will play a vital role in boosting our freshwater fishing stocks, such as trout, and supporting important restocking programs.
"Every year, more 450,000 trout are released across 75 South-West freshwater dams and rivers, with recreational fishers injecting more than $20 million annually into WA's regional economies while on trout fishing getaways.
"By investing in this business case, the McGowan Government is investing in the future of the South-West and the world-class fishing experiences it has to offer."
As stated by Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie
"This is a great win for Pemberton.
"Our latest investment will ensure that we are well placed to consider future upgrades to the Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre to boost trout restocking programs, as well as value-adding to the facility through an interactive tourism experience.
"Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre is the largest freshwater hatchery and research facility in WA. By prioritising investment in this space, we are opening the door for private investment to support industry and community development in Pemberton."
