An elected Liberal Nationals Government has announced it will offer a voluntary buyback of commercial fishing licences on the Gippsland Lakes to secure a sustainable fishery for future generations. The Coalition has said a Gippsland Lakes Sustainability Plan will be developed in consultation with industry and the community, and will also explore opportunities to undertake habitat restoration...

After 50 years of tireless commitment to treating the injuries and illnesses of pets and other animals, local veterinarian, John Ward, was recognised recently as the 2018 Petplan Vet of the Year. The awards first began in 2016 and recognise and support the hard work of all veterinary professionals. People from all over the country nominated their veterinary heroes, but it was John who received...

Students at Federation Training’s Forestec campus will soon have access to even more cutting edge training thanks to a $1.1 million State Government funding boost to the campus. Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, last Thursday announced the funding, which will increase the training opportunities within the forestry sector enabling the purchase and upgrade of equipment requirements to...

At the Women’s Industry Network Seafood Community (WINSC) 20th anniversary celebrations at the Hilton Adelaide on Friday, October 19, Lakes Entrance’s Mary Mitchelson (89) was one of 20 ladies to be named on the inaugural honour roll. The honour recognises the contribution Mary has made over many years into the growth, prosperity and knowledge of the local seafood community and industry. After...

The Lakes Entrance Fishermen’s Co-operative has welcomed news that a seismic survey proposed for Bass Strait has been halted by a Federal approval agency.Chief executive officer of the co-operative, Brad Duncan, said had the seismic survey gone ahead it would have likely wiped out the co-operative.The National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) ruled it...