Fishcare volunteers needed in South Coast regions
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Keen fishers are invited to join the NSW Government’s successful Fishcare Volunteer Program, which has nearly 300 volunteers state-wide.
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries Education Officer, Gavin McDonall, says anglers with a keen interest in recreational fishing and the aquatic environment can nominate to train as a Fishcare volunteer.
“We’re looking to recruit new Fishcare Volunteers from the south coast anywhere from north Wollongong to Eden. The two-day training session is planned for the weekend of the 23rd and 24th of June at the Shellharbour campus of TAFE,” he said.
“The workshop will include presentations by DPI staff about recreational fishing, rules and regulations, conservation, research and communicating the rules of sustainable fishing to anglers. There is also a TAFE training component in fish biology and identifying fish species.
“At the end of the workshop participants will receive a statement of attainment in fish care. After reaching volunteer milestones and completing sea safety training volunteers will then have opportunities to assist in dedicated Fishcare boats.
“Fishcare volunteers play a vital role in promoting awareness and do a terrific job in advising anglers about the rules and values of sustainable recreational fishing in NSW.
“They also take part in kids fishing workshops and collect fishing information by conducting surveys. Volunteers do not have any enforcement powers.
“Anyone with a passion for recreational fishing and is able to donate eight hours a month can join this important community program, which is helping to promote good fishing practice in NSW,” Mr McDonall said.
The Fishcare Volunteer Program is funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust and provides a vital link between anglers and NSW DPI.
Funds raised from the sale of the Recreational fishing fee are placed into the saltwater and freshwater Recreational Fishing Trusts and can only be spent on projects to improve recreational fishing in NSW
For more information about the Fishcare volunteer training, contact Gavin McDonall on 42951809 or 04382 45190. Further details on Fishcare Volunteers can be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
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