At the Seniors Discount Club, we're no strangers to change. Many of us can wax nostalgic about Australian stores that have disappeared over the years. And while change is inevitable, it always stings when another long-serving family business announces its closure.

This time, Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is preparing to close its doors for good.

Founded in 1932, Bluewater Tackle World has been synonymous with Australian fishing for generations.

However, unfortunate changes in recreational fishing rules and the end of their lease have the beloved store saying farewell to its loyal customers, marking the end of an era in Australian fishing history.

Australia's oldest fishing shop Bluewater Tackle World will close its last branch in Myaree in the coming weeks. Credit: Facebook/Bluewater Tackle World.

The Myaree location in Western Australia will be the last of the Bluewater Tackle World branches to shut down. The business cited stricter fishing regulations in the state as one of the reasons for its closure. With its rich family history spanning four generations, the closure of this Aussie institution leaves many feeling heartbroken and nostalgic.

In a Facebook post, Bluewater Tackle World expressed their gratitude for the community's support through the years.

'Our Myaree store is at the end of its lease, and after much soul-searching, we have decided to close our doors,' the company said.

'After 91 years in the fishing tackle industry, it is time for the Harvey family to move on. Many thanks to our wonderful staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade for making great memories over four generations. The Harvey family are grateful to you all.'

Reeling from the news, Bluewater Tackle World's closure has locals in emotional knots. Known for offering quality gear, expert advice, and exceptional service, faithful customers are disappointed that a tightening of fishing regulations and leasing constraints have forced the closure of this iconic store.

News of Bluewater Tackle World's closure comes after recent restrictions in West Australian fishing.

The updated rules, which became effective on February 1st this year, banned hobby fishers from catching some of the most popular fish species (demersal scalefish, such as dhufish, baldchin groper, breaksea cod and pink snapper) within certain areas of WA waters for six months—a bitter pill to swallow for the angler community.

Now imagine the impact on family-owned businesses like Bluewater Tackle World, who've been providing Aussies with their fishing necessities for almost a century.

It's no surprise that owner Liz Harvey urged the community to support their locally-owned, independent tackle shops. 'The independent tackle stores are all owned by families, and if they don't get the support from the community, they will all close like we've had to,' she told a news outlet.

The Harvey legacy began with Ted Harvey in 1932, who expanded his general store and newsagency in Scarborough to sell fishing gear. The business blossomed under the guidance of Jack and Ross, Ted's sons, and then Hal, who passed away from cancer in 2014. Liz Harvey subsequently took the helm, steering Bluewater Tackle World in its final years.

While Bluewater Tackle World prepares for its final sale, the outpouring of love and gratitude from customers continues to grow.

Despite Ms Harvey’s end of lease sale allowing customers to save on their fishing gear, many are shattered about the store’s closure.

The store's Facebook announcement has garnered hundreds of customer comments thanking the Harvey family for their exceptional service and quality products throughout the years.

'Definitely a sad day indeed. The Bluewater group led by Hal shaped the tackle industry into what it is today. I wish all the Bluewater staff the very best,' one customer wrote.

'My fishing life started in the Myaree store as a young kid. The Bluewater team helped shape a lifetime of fishing adventures, and I'm forever grateful. Thanks, team,' another long-time customer said.

A third added: 'Sorry to hear. Have had some great advice and quality tackle from there over the years, rods that have caught a hundred great fish and still going strong ten years later.'

Though a sad and emotional time for many, the Bluewater Tackle World community will undoubtedly remain cherished in the hearts of its customers for years to come.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has implemented fishing regulation changes to protect demersal fish resources and meet 2030 recovery targets.

While these changes impact all sectors, the department states they are necessary for future fish sustainability. Additionally, the spokesperson highlights that factors such as cost of living pressures, competition, and online shopping contribute to the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores, not just the fishing regulations.

The department has also announced that fishing activities can still proceed as usual. However, they strongly advise focusing on catching non-demersal species such as mackerels, tuna, herring, whiting, squid, and rock lobster. This will aid in restoring the demersal scalefish population along the west coast.

Key Takeaways

• Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is closing its doors after 90 years and three generations of trading.
• The last branch in Myaree, Western Australia, cited new recreational fishing regulations in the state as the reason for its closure.
• The Harvey family, who own the business, expressed their gratitude towards their staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade.
• Many customers reacted to the closure with sadness and appreciation for the fishing store's service over the years.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we know the importance of supporting our local, family-owned businesses. If you're in the area, be sure to stop into Bluewater Tackle World before it's gone and share your memories of the store with fellow customers and staff.

We would love to hear from you, especially those who live in the area or are passionate fishing hobbyists. Have you noticed any other stores in your vicinity that have also been impacted? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!

 

[Bellclare]

Another way to keep small, independent, family owned businesses open is to pay in cash. This guarantees that the full cost of the item is kept by the business & not frittered away with bank fees, government fees etc. Whenever you pay for an item by card, some of that money goes to the bank, so the business loses a percentage of the profit they would otherwise keep when paid in cash. Small independents are fast becoming a rarity now - eg, my husband & I had the 2nd last camping shop to close in NSW because customers preferred to use Anaconda, Katmandu, BCF &c. Camping advice given freely in our shop no longer occurs & the chain camping stores have very few staff who have the knowledge to offer any advice.

 

[Thecheesequeen]

Yes, Bellclare, I agree that it’s the bigger companies like BCF and the like that have put the smaller shops out of business. They have a higher profile with their big advertising campaigns, so people tend not to see the little high street stores Any more.

 

[Suzanne rose]

My son runs fishing tours and buys most of his gear online .

The prices of lures, hooks ect in shops are ridiculous.

We want to support small businesses but in today's times if the prices are high we need to go wherever we are saving money

 

[Robbo3006]

At the Seniors Discount Club, we're no strangers to change. Many of us can wax nostalgic about Australian stores that have disappeared over the years. And while change is inevitable, it always stings when another long-serving family business announces its closure.

This time, Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is preparing to close its doors for good.

Founded in 1932, Bluewater Tackle World has been synonymous with Australian fishing for generations.

However, unfortunate changes in recreational fishing rules and the end of their lease have the beloved store saying farewell to its loyal customers, marking the end of an era in Australian fishing history.

View attachment 23318

Australia's oldest fishing shop Bluewater Tackle World will close its last branch in Myaree in the coming weeks. Credit: Facebook/Bluewater Tackle World.

The Myaree location in Western Australia will be the last of the Bluewater Tackle World branches to shut down. The business cited stricter fishing regulations in the state as one of the reasons for its closure. With its rich family history spanning four generations, the closure of this Aussie institution leaves many feeling heartbroken and nostalgic.

In a Facebook post, Bluewater Tackle World expressed their gratitude for the community's support through the years.

'Our Myaree store is at the end of its lease, and after much soul-searching, we have decided to close our doors,' the company said.

'After 91 years in the fishing tackle industry, it is time for the Harvey family to move on. Many thanks to our wonderful staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade for making great memories over four generations. The Harvey family are grateful to you all.'

Reeling from the news, Bluewater Tackle World's closure has locals in emotional knots. Known for offering quality gear, expert advice, and exceptional service, faithful customers are disappointed that a tightening of fishing regulations and leasing constraints have forced the closure of this iconic store.

News of Bluewater Tackle World's closure comes after recent restrictions in West Australian fishing.

The updated rules, which became effective on February 1st this year, banned hobby fishers from catching some of the most popular fish species (demersal scalefish, such as dhufish, baldchin groper, breaksea cod and pink snapper) within certain areas of WA waters for six months—a bitter pill to swallow for the angler community.

Now imagine the impact on family-owned businesses like Bluewater Tackle World, who've been providing Aussies with their fishing necessities for almost a century.

It's no surprise that owner Liz Harvey urged the community to support their locally-owned, independent tackle shops. 'The independent tackle stores are all owned by families, and if they don't get the support from the community, they will all close like we've had to,' she told a news outlet.

The Harvey legacy began with Ted Harvey in 1932, who expanded his general store and newsagency in Scarborough to sell fishing gear. The business blossomed under the guidance of Jack and Ross, Ted's sons, and then Hal, who passed away from cancer in 2014. Liz Harvey subsequently took the helm, steering Bluewater Tackle World in its final years.

While Bluewater Tackle World prepares for its final sale, the outpouring of love and gratitude from customers continues to grow.

View attachment 23319

Despite Ms Harvey’s end of lease sale allowing customers to save on their fishing gear, many are shattered about the store’s closure.

The store's Facebook announcement has garnered hundreds of customer comments thanking the Harvey family for their exceptional service and quality products throughout the years.

'Definitely a sad day indeed. The Bluewater group led by Hal shaped the tackle industry into what it is today. I wish all the Bluewater staff the very best,' one customer wrote.

'My fishing life started in the Myaree store as a young kid. The Bluewater team helped shape a lifetime of fishing adventures, and I'm forever grateful. Thanks, team,' another long-time customer said.

A third added: 'Sorry to hear. Have had some great advice and quality tackle from there over the years, rods that have caught a hundred great fish and still going strong ten years later.'

Though a sad and emotional time for many, the Bluewater Tackle World community will undoubtedly remain cherished in the hearts of its customers for years to come.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has implemented fishing regulation changes to protect demersal fish resources and meet 2030 recovery targets.

While these changes impact all sectors, the department states they are necessary for future fish sustainability. Additionally, the spokesperson highlights that factors such as cost of living pressures, competition, and online shopping contribute to the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores, not just the fishing regulations.

The department has also announced that fishing activities can still proceed as usual. However, they strongly advise focusing on catching non-demersal species such as mackerels, tuna, herring, whiting, squid, and rock lobster. This will aid in restoring the demersal scalefish population along the west coast.

Key Takeaways

• Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is closing its doors after 90 years and three generations of trading.
• The last branch in Myaree, Western Australia, cited new recreational fishing regulations in the state as the reason for its closure.
• The Harvey family, who own the business, expressed their gratitude towards their staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade.
• Many customers reacted to the closure with sadness and appreciation for the fishing store's service over the years.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we know the importance of supporting our local, family-owned businesses. If you're in the area, be sure to stop into Bluewater Tackle World before it's gone and share your memories of the store with fellow customers and staff.

We would love to hear from you, especially those who live in the area or are passionate fishing hobbyists. Have you noticed any other stores in your vicinity that have also been impacted? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!

Governments fault, fishing licences and telling us where and when we can fish, all about money, recreational fishing should be free for everyone.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Governments fault, fishing licences and telling us where and when we can fish, all about money, recreational fishing should be free for everyone.

I agree you shouldn't need to pay for a fishing licence if it's recreational eg fishing from a wharf, rocks or river bank . Maybe yes if you are fishing from a boat

 

[Roysta]

At the Seniors Discount Club, we're no strangers to change. Many of us can wax nostalgic about Australian stores that have disappeared over the years. And while change is inevitable, it always stings when another long-serving family business announces its closure.

This time, Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is preparing to close its doors for good.

Founded in 1932, Bluewater Tackle World has been synonymous with Australian fishing for generations.

However, unfortunate changes in recreational fishing rules and the end of their lease have the beloved store saying farewell to its loyal customers, marking the end of an era in Australian fishing history.

View attachment 23318

Australia's oldest fishing shop Bluewater Tackle World will close its last branch in Myaree in the coming weeks. Credit: Facebook/Bluewater Tackle World.

The Myaree location in Western Australia will be the last of the Bluewater Tackle World branches to shut down. The business cited stricter fishing regulations in the state as one of the reasons for its closure. With its rich family history spanning four generations, the closure of this Aussie institution leaves many feeling heartbroken and nostalgic.

In a Facebook post, Bluewater Tackle World expressed their gratitude for the community's support through the years.

'Our Myaree store is at the end of its lease, and after much soul-searching, we have decided to close our doors,' the company said.

'After 91 years in the fishing tackle industry, it is time for the Harvey family to move on. Many thanks to our wonderful staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade for making great memories over four generations. The Harvey family are grateful to you all.'

Reeling from the news, Bluewater Tackle World's closure has locals in emotional knots. Known for offering quality gear, expert advice, and exceptional service, faithful customers are disappointed that a tightening of fishing regulations and leasing constraints have forced the closure of this iconic store.

News of Bluewater Tackle World's closure comes after recent restrictions in West Australian fishing.

The updated rules, which became effective on February 1st this year, banned hobby fishers from catching some of the most popular fish species (demersal scalefish, such as dhufish, baldchin groper, breaksea cod and pink snapper) within certain areas of WA waters for six months—a bitter pill to swallow for the angler community.

Now imagine the impact on family-owned businesses like Bluewater Tackle World, who've been providing Aussies with their fishing necessities for almost a century.

It's no surprise that owner Liz Harvey urged the community to support their locally-owned, independent tackle shops. 'The independent tackle stores are all owned by families, and if they don't get the support from the community, they will all close like we've had to,' she told a news outlet.

The Harvey legacy began with Ted Harvey in 1932, who expanded his general store and newsagency in Scarborough to sell fishing gear. The business blossomed under the guidance of Jack and Ross, Ted's sons, and then Hal, who passed away from cancer in 2014. Liz Harvey subsequently took the helm, steering Bluewater Tackle World in its final years.

While Bluewater Tackle World prepares for its final sale, the outpouring of love and gratitude from customers continues to grow.

View attachment 23319

Despite Ms Harvey’s end of lease sale allowing customers to save on their fishing gear, many are shattered about the store’s closure.

The store's Facebook announcement has garnered hundreds of customer comments thanking the Harvey family for their exceptional service and quality products throughout the years.

'Definitely a sad day indeed. The Bluewater group led by Hal shaped the tackle industry into what it is today. I wish all the Bluewater staff the very best,' one customer wrote.

'My fishing life started in the Myaree store as a young kid. The Bluewater team helped shape a lifetime of fishing adventures, and I'm forever grateful. Thanks, team,' another long-time customer said.

A third added: 'Sorry to hear. Have had some great advice and quality tackle from there over the years, rods that have caught a hundred great fish and still going strong ten years later.'

Though a sad and emotional time for many, the Bluewater Tackle World community will undoubtedly remain cherished in the hearts of its customers for years to come.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has implemented fishing regulation changes to protect demersal fish resources and meet 2030 recovery targets.

While these changes impact all sectors, the department states they are necessary for future fish sustainability. Additionally, the spokesperson highlights that factors such as cost of living pressures, competition, and online shopping contribute to the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores, not just the fishing regulations.

The department has also announced that fishing activities can still proceed as usual. However, they strongly advise focusing on catching non-demersal species such as mackerels, tuna, herring, whiting, squid, and rock lobster. This will aid in restoring the demersal scalefish population along the west coast.

Key Takeaways

• Australia's oldest fishing shop, Bluewater Tackle World, is closing its doors after 90 years and three generations of trading.
• The last branch in Myaree, Western Australia, cited new recreational fishing regulations in the state as the reason for its closure.
• The Harvey family, who own the business, expressed their gratitude towards their staff, customers, suppliers, and friends within the trade.
• Many customers reacted to the closure with sadness and appreciation for the fishing store's service over the years.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we know the importance of supporting our local, family-owned businesses. If you're in the area, be sure to stop into Bluewater Tackle World before it's gone and share your memories of the store with fellow customers and staff.

We would love to hear from you, especially those who live in the area or are passionate fishing hobbyists. Have you noticed any other stores in your vicinity that have also been impacted? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!

 

[Roysta]

Fishing is still a great Aussie pastime, our 'local' stores can't compete with larger stores that sell cheap Chinese rubbish.

 

[Gsr]

Nothing is free anymore, the various levels of government have seen to that. Have to pay a licence fee for fishing, fossicking, prospecting, hunting, we even have to pay to visit our local man made lake which supplies out town water. We can’t even get in the gate without paying a fee, even just to drive around the lake or have a picnic there. When I worked in aged care we often took a bus load of clients to the lake, had a drive around, took a picnic lunch. It was a great day out, now the fee to take a bus load of people into the grounds means it is no longer affordable to the clients. The reasoning behind the exorbitant fees, people use the toilets and fees pay for the cleaning, supplies needed for the toilets. So going to the toilet even costs money, I’m surprised that our council at least hasn’t put locked doors on all the public toilets around and made everyone pay to use them. This lake is now a huge tourist attraction, there are on site caretakers and council reaps huge money from campers and day recreational boaters, fishers etc, so why they need to charge a bus load of mostly pensioners to have a picnic there is beyond me.