Hon David Basham MP
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development
Six new members and an independent chair have been appointed to the Minister’s Recreational Fishing Advisory Council to help deliver better recreational fishing opportunities across South Australia.
Sharon Starick will be the independent chair, with Australian Fishing Trade Association’s Alicia Bolitho, rock lobster fisher Andrew Smith, game fisher Lee Van Soest, game fisher Bryan Stokes, RecFish SA’s Mick Wilson, and professional fishing rod maker Rob Wilson also joining the council.
The existing directly elected members are David Scholefield, Amanda Whitehorn and Peter Teakle.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said the Marshall Liberal Government wants to expand the opportunities for South Australians to get outdoors and enjoy catching a fish.
“We went to the last election promising better representation to the government from the recreational fishing sector,” said Minister Basham.
“The Minister’s Recreational Fishing Advisory Council provides the opportunity for those right across the sector to help deliver better recreational fishing opportunities across the state.
“The focus of the MRFAC will be to develop a Recreational Fishing Strategy for South Australia to be released prior to MRFAC elections next year.
“I welcome the new members who come from all over the state and add a wide range of recreational fishing experience to the remaining members.
“Today represents a new opportunity for the recreational fishing sector to come together and help deliver positive outcomes.
“An important change will be the appointment of an independent chair, Sharon Starick who will advise on corporate governance, chair meetings and manage interactions between the MRFAC and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.
“Ms Starick is well qualified to take on the role as independent chair with her wealth of experience serving on national and local boards including Animal Health Australia, Grains Research and Development Corporation, Rural Business Support, RAA, and previously SA Murray Darling Basin NRM and the Australian Landcare Council.
“Recreational fishing provides significant social and economic benefits to our State and I look forward to working with the new Council to further our commitment to improving South Australia’s fishing experience.”
MRFAC members
Sharon Starick – Independent Chair
Alicia Bolitho – tackle shop owner (Port Lincoln)
David Scholefield – spear fisher (Mount Compass)
Andrew Smith – rock lobster fisher (Robe)
Lee Van Soest – tuna champion and game fisher (Munno Para Downs)
Bryan Stokes – game fisher (Murray Bridge)
Peter Teakle – inland fisher (Renmark)
Amanda Whitehorn – land-based and kayak fisher (South Brighton)
Mick Wilson – chair of RecFish SA (Smithfield)
Rob Wilson – fishing rod repair shop owner (Hampstead Gardens)