February 5, 2020
Please note this article was published on 5 February 2020 and the information presented may no longer apply. Head to the Victorian Fisheries Authority‘s website for the most up-to-date information regarding the now ongoing Golden Tag Competition.
A “Golden Tag” program has been announced by Jaala Pulford MP and Victorian Fisheries Authority in the coming months to drive much-needed fishing tourism to our fire affected communities.
A $500,000 prize pool has been announced with 1,000 fish to be tagged across the North East and East Gippsland. The first 10 tags are worth $10K and fish caught after that rewarded with $2K.
Many of the communities impacted by the bushfire crisis are some of our most beloved fishing destinations with many local businesses relying upon fishing-related tourism.
Golden Tag Locations:
Mallacoota, Cann River, Bemm River, Orbost, Marlo, Lakes Entrance, Lake Tyers, Omeo, Dartmouth, Mitta Mitta, Corryong, Tallangatta, Bright
???? Fish Species to be tagged:
VRFish’s research has found recreational fishing contributes $605 million to the local economy to the North East and Gippsland regions and supports over 3,800 full-time jobs. Victorian fishing spends on average $326 per fishing trip.
The more fishers that can be attracted back to the bushfire impacted communities over the next 12 months will mean more money spent on accommodation, fuel, food, groceries, bait and tackle at local businesses.
VRFish will be encouraging all fishers to arrive in bushfire impacted communities with an empty esky and plenty of room in the tackle box to support local businesses.
The start date of the promotion is yet to be confirmed. We believe any decision will be based on the re-opening of roads, water quality and the status of active fires.
For all the details visit the VFA’s Golden Tag Competition webpage.
For up to date safety and fire information and before any travel, always consult the Vic Emergency website and app.
The Caravan Industry Association of Australia has released a new Keep On Camping campaign which has the most current information on the status of caravan parks and their contacts details.
