Division 7.7.2

Fishers were asked to complete a questionnaire to inform this assessment and were asked directly as to the degree of displacement incurred to other areas as a result of the proposed closure, and their ability to fish on alternative grounds and adapt in order to maintain catch value. The majority of affected fishers stated that they could not change fishing grounds or gear type but as this proposed option will only limit fishing activity over the reefs and standard buffer zone the potential for displacement will be minimal.