Have you got a passion for fishing? The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) is calling for people to join the Fishcare Volunteer Program.
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The program involves 250 volunteers state wide to mentor young people how to fish. The NSW DPI state coordinator of community programs, Dee Payne said that ‘the Fishcare volunteers play a vital role in promoting sustainable recreational fishing and do a terrific job in advising anglers and the general public about the rules and values of responsible fishing.’
“Volunteers partake in activities such as fishing workshops, schools visits, field days, fishing competitions, habitat restoration works, etc passing on their knowledge and skills and encouraging values that ensure there will be fish into the future,” she said.
Anyone interested in joining the program, register to complete specialised training that will be held in Sydney on April 14 and 15.
Travel and accommodation costs are covered for the duration of the weekend. The training weekend encompasses both freshwater and saltwater sessions, and is open to anyone over the age of 18 years of age.
“Volunteers range in age from students to retirees, and come from a great range of backgrounds and it’s expected volunteers will be available to give approximately one day per month to assist the program.
“Our volunteers help create better awareness among anglers and the wider community about fishing issues, and all volunteers are issued with clear identification as well as a distinctive hat, shirt and backpack containing the necessary documentation,” Ms Payne said.
NSW DPI staff and guest speakers will cover topics on recreational fisheries management, fishing rules, fish conservation, aquatic habitat management, maximising survival of released fish, communication skills and more. At the end of the weekend participants will receive a statement of attainment by TAFE NSW.
The training is free to complete however places are limited. To apply visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/info/fvp