Fishcare volunteers needed in Central and Mid-North Coast regions

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, Matthew Timmins, says anyone who loves the outdoors, has a keen interest in recreational fishing and the environment can nominate to train as a Fishcare volunteer.

“We’re looking to recruit new Fishcare Volunteers particularly around the Central Coast, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Forster and Port Macquarie areas. A two-day training session for new Fishcare volunteers is planned for the weekend of the 28th and 29th of April,” he said.

“Fishcare volunteers donate their time and effort promoting awareness and advising anglers about the rules and values of sustainable recreational fishing in NSW.

“They participate in education programs such as fishing workshops and they also collect fishing information by conducting surveys.

“Anyone with a love of recreational fishing and who 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 Timmins 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

After extra sea safety training in May 2007, volunteers will then have the opportunity to assist in dedicated Fishcare boats.

For more information about Fishcare volunteer training, contact Matthew Timmins on 02 4963 9414, or Dee McElligott on 02 9527 8531. 

Further details on Fishcare Volunteers can be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries

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