[ 04/06/2008 ]
Fisheries Minister Chris Natt today launched the 2008 Barra Nationals DVD and e-book.
"Fishing is the lure of the Territory and part of the great Territory lifestyle," Mr Natt said.
"April's Barra Nationals was a huge success with 80 of the 171 entrants coming from interstate.
"I congratulate the Palmerston Game Fishing Club for organising the 2008 Barra Nationals and producing a wonderful DVD and e-book – with the DVD set to be shown in Darwin on Channel 7 on June 14 and interstate on June 15 as part of a Barra Nationals TV Special.
"The DVD has a lot of great vision taken from this year's Barra Nationals with plenty of highlights and moments that can be re-lived in the comfort of your lounge room.
"The new e-book – believed to be a world first for a fishing competition - is a brilliant idea that provides a complete record of the tournament including vision, photos and catch data of the event so competitors will be able to show friends and families – interstate and overseas – just how good catching a barra in the Territory can be.
"A version for Chinese audiences is available with a Japanese version being worked on – which is great as more than 100,000 tourists who come here say they wet a line during their stay.
"Recreational and fishing tourism is a significant contributor to our economy - evidenced by the value of cars, boats and other associated equipment used to take part in this event.
"This was the 13th year the Barra Nationals have been held and the 10th year at the Banyan Farm – with 1297 barramundi caught and released – exceeding last year's total of 1121 - with two fish over the magic metre mark.
"I congratulate Barra Nationals co-ordinator of the past eight years – Paul Williams – for making this all possible as well as this year's category winners.
"The Territory Government is committed to improving recreational fishing for all Territorians, and events such as the Barra Nationals really highlight what a valuable resource the Daly River is and how important it is to protect it."
The DVD and e-book will be available shortly through the Palmerston Game Fishing Club website palmerstongamefishing.com.au or tackle outlets throughout Australia.