Aboriginal fishing workshop

A group of 30 Aboriginal students aged between 10 to 17 years, from Ghinni Ghinni Youth and Culture Aboriginal Corporation, will be given the chance to swap fishing stories and learn about responsible fishing during a special fishing workshop on the 12th & 13th February 2008.

The students from primary and secondary schools in the Manning Valley will learn fishing skills from NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) staff, along with local Elders and Aboriginal Educators from the Taree district. 

NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said fishing plays an important role in indigenous culture, and the workshop is a wonderful opportunity for younger children to carry on that tradition.

"The students will not only have lots of fun but they will also learn how to identify different types of fish, how to clean the fish for eating, and all about rigging, baiting and casting.

"The workshop, which aims to teach young people about responsible fishing practices, is part of a state-wide program run by DPI and funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.

"Funds raised from the recreational fishing fee are placed into two trusts, one for saltwater and one for freshwater, and can only be spent on projects to improve recreational fishing.

 "This workshop will provide a great opportunity for the local Aboriginal community to share their knowledge of local cultural fishing and their stories. It will also help ensure that recreational fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable pastime for anglers in the future," Mr Macdonald said.

Every child will receive a hat, T-shirt, rod, reel and tackle box with other prizes on offer during the day.

Further information about fishing workshops can be found at http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/your-fees/workshop

Workshop details: 12 & 13th February Saltwater Reserve, Manning River, Taree