ROCKHAMPTON'S Dave Swindells hopes a community meeting will make things a little clearer for the region's commercial fishermen.

On Wednesday, Mr Swindells will join a meeting held by the Queensland Seafood Industry Association discussing the Queensland Government's proposed policy to manage fishing in the Fitzroy River.

The policy was announced by Rockhampton MP Bill Byrne and Keppel MP Brittany Lauga during the state election campaign.

It would see commercial fishing banned from Corio Bay, inclusive of the Keppel Islands, Fitzroy River and Fitzroy Delta.

Announcing the policy, Mr Byrne and Ms Lauga said it could deliver the region 20 times the revenue commercial fishing currently provided. But Mr Swindells said the livelihoods of about 50 commercial fishermen were at risk if the government went ahead with the policy.

He said several other industries would be affected, including wholesalers, retailers and restaurants.

"The flow-on effect from the loss of business will be astronomical," Mr Swindells said.

The government's proposal included a $10 million compensation package to buy back commercial fishing licences.

But Mr Swindells said this wouldn't be enough to cover costs in the region.

Although Wednesday's meeting isn't open to the general public, Mr Swindells said those in affected industries were welcome to join the commercial fishermen.

Have your say

Commercial fishermen and those in affected industries can attend the meeting

Where: North Rockhampton Bowls Club, Glenmore Rd

When: Wednesday, 9.30am