Chris Wallis, from Community Action for Fish Rock, said he submitted a freedom of information request question- ing a Fisheries report that “... research has observed grey nurse sharks trailing lures at Fish Rock ...”.

Mr Wallis asked Industry and Investment NSW to supply any and all data related to the research or supporting that conclusion and received a response on Sunday stating:

“ ... There is no documentation to answer this query. To obtain the data, a phone survey was conducted with commercial dive operators working in the area.

“These estimates were obtained approximately 10 years ago.”

Mr Wallis said: “The ‘research’ for the ban on trolling at Fish Rock consists of someone unknown phoning some dive operators - 10 years ago.

“On the basis of that (Industry and Investment NSW) want to close Fish Rock to Green Island for trolling.

“The arrogance and contempt these people have for fishermen beggars belief. Unless we fight, we will most certainly lose.”

In State parliament on Wednesday, Opposition spokesperson for Primary Industries Duncan Gay asked how the government could justify closing the area to fishing if the information was correct.

Mr Wallis said a fishing challenge set down for this Saturday now carried even greater significance.

“This is not the climax of our protest, it is just the start,” he said.

More than 50 boats have registered for the challenge and organisers are hopeful of doubling that number.

Shooters and Fishers Party MLC Robert Brown will attend the rally, but Primary Industries Minister Steve Whan will not be there.

Representatives from the State Fisheries Department and NSW Waterways will be present.

Challenge participants are encouraged to fly a red banner or balloon from their vessel.

Boats will assemble for a photo opportunity at Fish Rock at 9.30am.

To register email fish rock@dodo.com.au or phone 0427 013 139.