The new Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) depot has opened in Townsville.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner said that for many years QBFP had operated out of multiple premises at Garbutt.
“It was time to amalgamate the operations and administrative functions to one location in Langton Street, adjacent to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Regional Office,” Mr Furner said.
“With the old lease expiring, we relocated all of our operations, including storage of vessels, equipment, seized items and shark control program stores to the new site.”
He said no significant fit-out changes were required — “and we can now meet all of our operational, storage, security, and administrative needs at one location”.
“At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government created a $27.25 million industry package to support our commercial fishing industry, including waiving some fees,” the Minister said.
“Our Market Diversification and Resilience Grants program has helped businesses to develop new products and find new markets after so many were lost during the pandemic.”
He said funding for the Recreational Fishing Grants program was also increased to $200,000 to support groups that enhance recreational fishing throughout Queensland.
“We are continuing to deliver our Sustainable Fisheries Strategy this year, which will see more red tape cut for the commercial sector, protect export jobs and set Queensland on the path to more profitable and sustainable fisheries,” Mr Furner said.
