State of the art radio means safer fishing

Fishing vessels trying their luck between Kiama and Gerringong now have access to a state of the art radio communications link, thanks in part, to the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Trust.

The Trust provided the Australian Volunteer Coastguard Association with $5000 for a much improved VHF and 27 MHz radio communications link for vessels fishing between Kiama and Gerringong, that radio system is now full operational.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Recreational Fisheries Manager, John Diplock, said this is another great example of the fishing licence fee working for fishers.

“The new radio system will allow direct communication with boats that are up to 30 nautical miles out to sea and will allow for the expansion of the communications grid with other emergency services.

“The previous system allowed for extremely limited communication with vessels in the area so this new system will provide fishers with a very valuable communications link.

“The area is very popular for inshore and offshore rec fishing with boats numbering in there hundreds at peak times. The new state of the art radio link will also allow boats to receive weather information and navigational assistance should it be required,” Mr Diplock said.

This project will better assist and equip the 24 hour volunteer coast guard at Port Kembla to ensure the safety of anglers fishing in the area.

Funds raised from the sale of the recreational fishing licence are placed into a saltwater and freshwater Recreational Fishing Trusts and can only be spent on projects to improve recreational fishing.

Expenditure from these trusts is overseen by angler expenditure committees on behalf of the recreational fishing community in NSW.