World Wetlands Day 2007

World Wetlands Day is today and the international theme is 'Wetlands and Fisheries'.

We are very lucky in Newcastle to have some very beautiful wetlands that make some contribution to the feed of local fish and prawns that many enjoy.

The contribution would be much greater if the Sydney Labor government lifted their game and opened up the flood gates that separate wetlands from the Estuary (so fish and prawns could move freely). This includes the Hexham floodgates and those at Tomago.

As always, it's promises, promises and very little action - maybe we'll have one of the eight gates open by the election (maybe!).

Healthy and functional inland and coastal wetlands play a very important role in the management and conservation of our important fish resources. They provide important habitat for fish populations, including rare and endangered fish species, and are spawning and nursery areas for many fish and other marine species.