ANGRY fishers have rallied against Federal Government plans to introduce new marine parks.
The angry fishers voiced fears of a dramatic increase in the proportion of imported seafood on Queensland plates.Also in their sights were proposals to shut down significant sections of the Coral Sea to fishing.
The rally was organised by Hamilton seafood identity Kristina Georges, who operates Samies Girl Fresh Seafood Market.
Industry members descended on Shorncliffe to express their concerns.
Moreton Bay Seafood Industry Association net delegate Dave Thomson said recreational and commercial fishermen would be hurt by the proposed changes.
"I've been in this industry all my life and I'm 62 years old," he said.
"It's just sad to see that the whole thing is getting eroded away. Eventually, it's got to stop. Let's just continue with the sustainable fishing that we've got.
"They're trying to raise issues that aren't really there."
Mr Thomson said the "green push" driving the changes would lead to changes in importation levels.
"There's going to be less local seafood available," he said.
"Eventually, we're going to have to feed the place. I'm struggling to understand the actual reasoning behind it all."
Prawn trawler couple Sam and Steve Anderson attended the rally with the hope of sending a message to the Federal Government.
"That's the most important thing," Mrs Anderson said.
"There is going to be no fresh seafood, there's going to be no Australian seafood. Where are we going to get our seafood from? It's going to come from overseas."
Submissions on final plans for the Commonwealth network must be made by September 10.
Read more on The Courier Mail.
