Fishing skills workshop for kids with special needs

Two fish were caught and 24 young children with special needs had a whale of a time at a fishing clinic held by NSW Department of Primary Industries fisheries officers at Ballina Fishing Park yesterday.

NSW DPI fisheries officer Brett Hurley said the children, aged 12 to 16 from Southern Cross High School at Ballina, got the opportunity to experience the activity of fishing in a safe, friendly and educational environment.

“We all had a great time and the children discovered some of the enjoyment that can be had from fishing,” said Brett. “They learnt to bait a hook and wet a line and two of the lucky ones caught a fish.

“It was rewarding to see the children’s smiles while participating in an activity, such as fishing, that is so readily available to everyone.” NSW DPI fisheries manager Max Withnell said fishing clinics for school age children were held on a regular basis on the north coast.

“We teach the kids about ethical fishing and the importance of maintaining a healthy aquatic habitat,” he said.

“They learn why we need bag and fish size limits to ensure a sustainable fishing resource into the future.”

Noel Porter of Ballina Fishing Park kindly supported the activity by providing free access to his facility for the event.

Media contact: Max Withnell, NSW DPI, Maclean on 6645 0504; or Fisheries officer Brett Hurley, who will be at the clinic today 0419 185 539; or Noel Porter at Ballina Fishing Park 6686 8149. Issued by:

Phil Bevan, NSW DPI, Wollongbar Ph 6626 1350 or 0429 458 053