If you've got a passion for fishing, a love of teaching and an awareness of the importance of protecting our aquatic habitat, the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSWDPI) would love to hear from you!
The Department's long running, popular and successful Fishcare Volunteer Program is seeking enthusiastic people keen to help teach the next generation about the importance of our aquatic environment, and how it links to sustainable recreational fishing, NSWDPI Fishcare Coordinator, Dee Payne, said today.
"The program has 330 volunteers of all ages state wide and is supported using funds from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust as part of the NSW Government's commitment to sustainable and responsible recreational fishing and habitat conservation," Ms Payne said.
"Fishcare volunteers play a vital role in promoting sustainable recreational fishing and do a terrific job in advising anglers and the general public about the rules and values of responsible fishing.
"Volunteers partake in activities such as guided walks, fishing workshops, schools visits, field days, habitat restoration works, etc passing on their knowledge and skills and encouraging values that ensure there will be fish into the future.
"We are calling for anyone interested in joining the program to register their interest to complete specialised training, the first is to be held in Sydney on August 18.
"NSW DPI staff and guest speakers will cover topics on recreational fisheries management, NSW fishing rules, Long Reef Aquatic Reserve, aquatic habitat management and communication skills and is run by an accredited trainer.
"Applicants from across NSW are encouraged to apply, with additional training to take place in other locations in the upcoming months.
"This training weekend will concentrate on Sydney and the Long Reef Aquatic Reserve, and is open to anyone over the age of 18 years of age.
"Volunteers range in age from students to retirees, and come from a great range of backgrounds and it's expected volunteers will be available to give approximately one day per month to assist the program."
The Sydney training day is at Narrabeen Coastal Environment Centre, entry via Pelican Path, Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen, NSW, 2101 and will include a Long Reef Intertidal Walk.
To apply go to https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/fishcare-volunteers.
