SA Algal Bloom Federal Minister Meeting Update
On behalf of AFTA, I participated in the Ministerial Algal Bloom Round Table held in Adelaide with Senator Murray Watts, Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, to address the ongoing Algal Bloom crisis in South Australia. Asher Dezsery (RecFishSA), Senator the Hon Murray Watt & Alicia Bolitho (AFTA & Tackle World Port Lincoln)
The meeting included representatives from various industries, each outlining the significant impact of the bloom on their respective sectors. All participants were encouraged to share concerns. Drawing upon feedback from the AFTA industry meeting on 11th August, I communicated several key issues:
Is it safe to consume fish? Clear, accurate, and transparent data is required to support public messaging.
The current grant model is inadequate, as turnover reduction restrictions (April–July) prevent many members from accessing funds. I have requested a review of this process to ensure timely financial support.
There is a need for a concise, positive marketing message regarding recreational fishing, noting that only 27% of the coastline is affected.
Recfish SA, supported by AFTA, requires increased resources and funding to effectively deliver short- and long-term outcomes for recreational fishing.
Minister Murray Watt provided the following summary of priorities:
- Implement climate-based changes
- Enhance restoration activities
- Prepare for future major events
- Establish long-term monitoring of causal inputs
- Promote a positive summer outlook
- Provide business support and additional marketing
- Foster community confidence
- Encourage citizen science initiatives
- Address cultural impacts
- Strengthen local government involvement
- Develop a new federal framework for such events
There remains much work to be done, and uncertainty persists regarding the resolution timeline. SARDI and government agencies are actively working to improve monitoring, logging, and mapping of the bloom.
Additionally, a Senate enquiry is currently underway and stakeholders are invited to contribute. For further information, please refer to the link below.
Updates will be provided to the South Australian retail industry as new information emerges. For enquiries, please contact me at 0403 007 465 or via email at alicia@tackleworldpl.com.au.
South Australian Director, Alicia Bolitho (Tackle World Port Lincoln)