Qld tops for illegal fishing
QUEENSLAND remains a hotspot for illegal fishing, contributing to the third most lucrative crime in the world, according to experts.
Figures from the Australian Fisheries Management Authority reveal more than half the illegal foreign fishing arrests in the country in the past year were in Queensland waters.
During the 2016- 17 period, 15 boats were apprehended in Australia, with eight of them ( all Vietnamese) being off the east coast of Queensland.
Illegal fishing is the third most lucrative crime in the world, behind weapons trafficking and drug smuggling. Crest line trail Connecting trails Lookouts Amenity, dog off- leash ash area, and parking area ea MOUNT Louisa is set to be transformed into a recreational area fit to rival Castle Hill.
The city’s love affair with the iconic landmark is behind a Townsville City Council proposal to open Mount Louisa to recreational users.
The council will seek community feedback on the plan to develop the area to be used for activities such as walking, cycling and hiking.
Mayor Jenny Hill said while the attraction of Castle Hill was indisputable, the rise in popularity of active lifestyles meant it was in danger of being loved to death.
“With our perfect yearround weather and beautiful natural surrounds, it’s no surprise Townsville locals love to get outdoors and get active,” Cr Hill said.
“While Castle Hill is a location of choice, we need to strike a balance between protecting the natural values and beauty of the hill and providing opportunities for tourists, walkers and recreational users.
“Mount Louisa, with its elevation, natural environment and views, offers a wonderful opportunity to create an al- ternative to Castle Hill and, in the process, a potential new tourism destination for the city with open space for recreation, health and fitness and lookout points.
“Council’s vision for citywide growth comes with the need to cater to all areas of the city, and the potential to open Mount Louisa for public recreational space is a great outcome for residents and visitors to the surrounding suburbs.”
Professional dog walker and owner of Dogs About Townsville Meg Williams said many of her clients were based in the Kirwan area, so it would be great to have other recreation options nearby.
“It’s good there is now going to be something where my clients are,” she said.
“Castle Hill does get pretty crowded especially when you have cars as well because it’s a narrow windy road.
“I hope the council includes areas where dogs can have a drink, some poo bag dispensers with a bin and then public toilets for people.”
Cr Hill said details of the consultation format would be released soon and feedback from stakeholders such as de- velopers, landholders, fitness groups and clubs would be a feature in the Mount Louisa Open Space Master Plan.
“The consultation period will be extremely important in providing residents with input into the development of the master plan and I urge everyone to get involved,” she said.
“Townsville City Council will also meet with residents and developer groups to seek their feedback during the engagement process.”