Commercial fishers in Port Stephens can breathe a sigh of relief today, as it's announced fishing closures will be lifted next month.
The practice was banned in September last year after toxic chemicals from the Williamtown RAAF Base were found to have seeped into Port Stephens waterways.
Manager of the Fishermans Co-op, Robert Gauter, said it's good news for fishers struggling to make ends meet as well as customers who buy locally.
"Customers will have more choice now," he said. "If they're comfortable, they can buy products from the Hunter with the confidence that the Government says it's safe to consume."
However, he admitted he is cautiously optimistic, as many fishers will be seeking compensation.
"We'll still be in the trenches with Defence to try and get something back for those guys who had losses for the last twelve months."
