Cairns Regional Council backs down on proposed Esplanade fishing ban following Local Laws review
After fierce objections from Far North fishos, Cairns Regional Council has made a decision on whether or not to proceed with a proposed fishing ban on the Esplanade.
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A Cairns business owner says he’s relieved Far North fishos are “off the hook” following a review into angling on the city’s scenic foreshore.
Under new local laws, anglers can still cast a line along most of the Esplanade, with fishing prohibited along the footpath fronting the Lagoon between 6am and 6pm.
But Cairns Tackle World manager Rob Erskine said he initially feared recreational fishers would be caught out.
“I was worried they were trying to have it totally banned at one stage,” Mr Erskine said.
“It’s just such a beautiful place for families to come together and drop a line.
“When I was a kid I used to fish there a lot and we have customers that go there.
“You can catch barra, flathead, whiting and grunters.”
Under proposed changes to local laws first made public by Cairns Regional Council in August, fishing would have been prohibited on fishing at Cairns Esplanade Reserve, which extends from Smith St in Cairns North to Cairns Marlin Marina, excluding “some sections of sand”.
The proposed changes, described by the council’s director of planning Ed Johnson as “based primarily on safety concerns”, prompted fierce objections from Cairns residents and fishers.
Acting Mayor Terry James said the council had received 104 submissions in relation to proposed amendments to its local laws – which cover a range of activities and areas – and the vast majority relating to fishing on the Esplanade.
“There was clear and overwhelming support for fishing to be allowed to continue on the Esplanade,” Cr James said.
“During the four-week consultation period, Council received a total of 93 submissions on a proposed prohibition of fishing on the Cairns Esplanade, with only one submission supporting the ban.
“Having considered the feedback, fishing on the Cairns Esplanade is permitted, with the addition of a time restriction along the front of the Lagoon, striking a balance between safety for Lagoon users and community expectations.”
Fishing along the Esplanade was good for the economy and the community, Mr Erskine said.
“Cairns is so limited in terms of spots where you can fish from the shore,” he said.
“It hurts your fishing tourism and the people who live here as well if you don’t have it.
“It’s great for tourists and locals.”
Mr Erskine also urged anglers to be mindful of fishing bans and limits on certain fish currently in place, including barramundi, spanish mackerel and coral fin fish.
Visitors should check in with tackle shops before dropping a line, he said.
“It’s important people are aware of the dates, especially if tourists are visiting,” Mr Erskine said.
The changes to Local Laws come into effect from July 1, 2024.
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