Fishcare volunteers needed for Western Region
Keen fishers are invited to join the NSW Government’s successful Fishcare Volunteer Program, which has more than 300 volunteers State-wide.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries Education Officer, Brett Smith, said community members with a keen interest in recreational fishing and the environment could nominate to train as a Fishcare volunteer.
"We’re looking to recruit new Fishcare volunteers from the Western Region of NSW. The two-day training session is planned for the weekend of the 15-16 August at Bathurst," he said.
"The training weekend will include presentations by DPI staff, as well as a TAFE training component in fish biology and identifying fish species. At the end of the weekend, participants will receive a statement of attainment."
Fishcare volunteers work to educate, collect information and promote the benefits of ethical fishing. They assist with children’s fishing workshops, as well as displays at field days, trade shows and expos.
Volunteers also help with angler surveys, fisheries’ research projects and river related habitat projects.
"Volunteers are a valuable communication link between NSW DPI and anglers," Mr Smith said.
"Volunteers do not have any enforcement powers and are not involved in compliance operations.
"Anyone with a keen interest in recreational fishing can apply to join this important community program, which is helping to promote good fishing practice in NSW."
The Fishcare Volunteer Program is funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.
For more information about the Fishcare Volunteer Program or the upcoming training, contact Brett Smith on (02) 6881 1222 or 0447 219 618.
Further reading
Media contact: Sarah Chester on (02) 60 36 2110 or 0417 207 669