Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries policy officer Simon Barry said the Moreton Bay rock oyster industry has potential for significant growth with demand for local rock oysters exceeding the industries current capacity to supply.
* "The plan supports and promotes developing the commercial oyster industry in Queensland while providing for the ecologically sustainable use of the marine park" |
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Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries policy officer Simon Barry
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"The Oyster Industry Management Plan for the Moreton Bay Marine Park will benefit industry by reducing duplication of licensing and administration. It will also help to develop the Queensland rock oyster industry by providing confidence to long-term industry investors," Mr Barry said.
"Both industry and government will benefit from streamlined approvals processes which will mean farmers are not required to obtain a Marine Parks Permit in addition to other relevant approvals issued under the Fisheries Act 1994 and Integrated Planning Act 1997.
"The plan supports and promotes developing the commercial oyster industry in Queensland while providing for the ecologically sustainable use of the marine park.
"Outlined in the plan are details of how the oyster industry will be managed within the marine park including provisions relating to oyster furniture, storage of equipment, structures and moorings.
"The plan strikes a balance between maintaining biodiversity and protection of areas of high conservation value, while still allowing access to valuable resource for users.
"The Oyster Industry Management Plan for the Moreton Bay Marine Park is the result of the joint efforts of DPI&F, Environmental Protection Agency and the oyster industry."