The Petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council that there is a need for recreational fishing opportunities within the City of Whitehorse. Currently the City of Whitehorse does not offer any opportunities for fishing, even prohibiting recreational fishing under by-laws, forcing community members to venture further to be able to participate in recreational fishing.

The community would greatly benefit from having a local fishing waterway. The waterway would provide an enjoyable and peaceful place to go fishing and a place where the Mitcham Angling Club could run community events and hold training sessions for members.

Blackburn Lake is already well frequented and enjoyed as a walking and play area by many community members and families. The community proposes to introduce fishing at Blackburn Lake in a considered and collaborative approach with the Victorian Recreational Fishing Peak Body, the Victorian Fisheries Authority, the Whitehorse City Council and the Blackburn Lake Sanctuary Advisory Group.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to deliver an independent and thorough study that investigates the feasibility, long-term sustainability, and environmental impacts of introducing fishing at Blackburn Lake.