YOUR FISHING LICENCE FEES AT WORK IN LAKE WENDOUREE

by Bradley 29th Dec 2010

Freshwater anglers at Lake Wendouree have plenty to celebrate now the lake is full, trout stocking has resumed and two fishing platforms built with licence revenue can now be used.
The City of Ballarat built the northern Durham Point fishing platform many years ago, followed by another one at St Patrick’s Point, completed in 2006 when the lake was dry.
Both fishing platforms were built using $78,386 from the Recreational Fishing Grants Program, which reinvests money from the sale of fishing licences into projects that improve angling opportunities.
Built over dense bank side vegetation, the St Patrick’s Point fishing platform ensures land-based anglers have access to the deeper sections of the lake and enjoy clear casting to open water.
These platforms contribute to a broader rejuvenation program in the Lake Wendouree precinct.
With both platforms providing access for all, the City of Ballarat is improving visitor facilities for the lake, focusing on path, bridge and beach access points.
Revenue received from the sale of recreational fishing licences has also been used to stock Lake Wendouree once again.
Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst, said the high lake level and improved water conditions allowed the release of 90,000 rainbow trout fry in November.
“We are looking forward to restoring Lake Wendouree to its former glory as one of Victoria’s most popular and productive trout fisheries,” Mr Hurst said
Since its inception in 2001, the Recreational Fishing Grants Program has funded over 345 projects, worth more than $13.5 million.
For more information about how angling licence fees are being spent to improve fishing opportunities visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork or ring the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.