North Australian FISH FINDER TM forums

PRESS RELEASE, Ken Vowles, Minister for Primary Industry and Resources

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Territory fishers will have access to a new fishing spot near Katherine thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Territory Labor Government’s new Recreational Fishing Grants scheme.

The grant was given to the Amateur Fisherman’s Association NT (AFANT) to construct an access route to a spot known locally as 50K Hole on the Katherine River.

The proposed access route will pass through Manbulloo Station, and AFANT and the station leasee, Consolidated Pastoral Company (CPC), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to allow construction of the route and secure access.

50K Hole is located approximately 50km south-west of Katherine and public access to the site will be guided by a Code of Conduct developed by AFANT in consultation with CPC.

Minister for Primary Industry and Resources Ken Vowles said: “The new Recreational Fishing Grants scheme was established to help eligible organisations apply for funding for projects to help grow the recreational fishing sector and create jobs.

“We put aside $1 million for grants over two years, and already this year we’ve seen AFANT, Darwin Game Fishing Club and Palmerston Game Fishing Club receive grants to hold community fishing events.

“This latest grant will add an extra fishing destination to the list of places where Territory fishos and fishing tourists can go to catch a barra – 50K Hole is recognised for its quality barra fishing.”

Member for Katherine Sandra Nelson said: “The Territory has some of the best fishing in the world, and creating access to more spots – especially spots brimming with barra – will cement that reputation.

“This new fishing destination will be an additional lure for people to visit and spend money in the Katherine region, which will support jobs in our town.”

AFANT Executive Officer David Ciaravolo said: “Improving access options for recreational fishing is top priority for AFANT right across the Top End.

“We are pleased to have the support of the Northern Territory's Government and CPC for this exciting project along the Katherine River.

“This is a great example of how the NT Recreational Fishing Grants Scheme is enabling our sector to progress priority projects and to deliver value for money by leveraging community capacity.”

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FFF note ... 50k Hole used to be a popular spot for Katherine people years ago until it was closed by private interests. Katherine River is an extension of the Daly River. Should be a great fishing spot.

Excellent...a good news story in the midst of all the doom and gloom!

I agree Jeno. I was very proud to do my bit to get this off the ground

Nice spot too, great to hear, pulled a few good Barra out of there a few years back
Just be careful, some big crocs make their way up there too!

This site isn't open, the station changed ownership, which required renegotiation of the access point, and then COVID struck - won't be open until new negotiations can start.