State Government’s commitment to keep barra flowing into Lake Kununurra

Release another one million barra into Lake Kununurra? Yes, please!

In August, 2020, Premier Mark McGowan announced the multi-million recfishing COVID recovery package to support WA's COVID-19 recovery as the State emerged from the pandemic. 

WATCH: Premier Mark McGowan reveals recfishing COVID recovery package

For the State’s recfishing community, including us at the Lake Kununurra Barramundi Stocking Group, this was major news given its focus to drive more locals and tourists to WA's iconic fishing locations.

With the package set to boost various WA fish stocking programs, LKBSG were pleased the package included a commitment to stock another one million barra into Lake Kununurra over three years.

Following the announcement, Recfishwest – WA’s peak recreational fishing body – championed the package.

“It’s great to see the Premier and the State Government recognise the importance of fishing and the key role it has in contributing to our economy, our lifestyle and the health and wellbeing of the one in three West Aussies who go fishing each year,” Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said.

“This will see millions of fish released into WA waters and support existing fish stocking programs giving a huge boost to Lake Kununurra’s popular barramundi stocking program.

“Well-managed fish stocking programs can play an important role in future-proofing our fish stocks by helping increase fish abundance, as well as creating great new fishing opportunities.”

There are more than 750,000 recfishers in WA, who spend $2.4 billion annually on fishing. 

“It’s great to see the Government getting behind fishing,” Dr Rowland said.

“Working with Government to ensure great initiatives, such as the Lake Kununurra barra stocking program, continue to make fishing even better in WA for all West Aussies is fantastic.”