Fishing fees fund kids fishing workshops on the lake
Note: This content is stored on an archive website and may not be current or accurate. Contact us to clarify.
A grant of $5000 will enable the Lake Illawarra Police Community Youth Club (PCYC) to continue running after school fishing workshops after it successfully secured a Recreational Fishing Trust grant from the NSW State Government.
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Recreational Fisheries Manager, John Diplock, said the ‘Gone Fishing’ project is supported by NSW Police, the Lake Illawarra High School, Wollongong City Employment Training and Lake Illawarra Authority.
“Gone Fishing aims to teach local children aged between six and 14 about all aspects of fishing. They’ll not only learn about how to cast, tie knots and fish; they’ll also learn about ethical fishing practices and respect for the environment of Lake Illawarra.
“Each participant will also be provided with fishing gear, including a rod, reel, hooks and lures,” Mr Diplock said.
The program will run on alternate Mondays for the remainder of the 2007 school year and will be supervised by volunteers from the PCYC and DPI Fishcare Volunteers.
Children will travel free by bus to and from the PCYC to the foreshore of Lake Illawarra.
“As an added bonus, it is hoped the workshop will create opportunities to enjoy a terrific outdoor recreational activity and break down barriers between the generations.
“All those who take part will enjoy a barbecue afterwards before being bussed back to the PCYC. Parents and guardians will be welcome to attend.
Mr Diplock said anyone could apply to the Recreational Fishing Trusts for funding including fishing clubs and organisations, councils, community groups and individuals.
“All money raised by the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee is placed into the Recreational Fishing Trusts and spent on improving recreational fishing in NSW.
“These trusts are regulated by law and overseen by two committees made up of recreational fishers - one for saltwater and one for freshwater,” he said.
If you want to apply for trust funds you can find out more through the website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
Email: