ANGLERS and organisations with ideas for projects to improve recreational fishing in NSW are encouraged to apply for funding from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.
“In 2012/13 the NSW Government allocated approximately $14 million to a range of projects across the State and we are expecting a similar amount to be available for projects in the upcoming financial year,” said Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson.
“The funds collected from the sale of recreational fishing licence fees will be made available for both freshwater and saltwater projects nominated by recreational fishing groups, councils, individuals, universities and community organisations.
“This allocation is recommended by committees of expert fishers and funds are provided for both short and long term projects.
“Fishing continues to be one of our State’s most popular recreational activities with over one million anglers dropping a line in each year.
“The fishing licence fees are reinvested every year in order to improve the NSW recreational fishing assets and accessibility,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
Community projects previously funded include:
- The State’s first artificial reef off Sydney;
- new fish cleaning facilities on the Far South Coast of NSW
- the creation of interactive educational displays at the Ballina Marine Discovery Centre
- fishing workshops for the physically and mentally disabled.
Applications for funding close on Friday, 31 May 2013.
Funding applications must benefit recreational fishing. Contributing funding and in-kind support, such as voluntary labour, is encouraged. Joint applications are also encouraged.
For more information or assistance with applications contact the NSW Department of Primary Industries: (02) 6691 9681, email recreational.fishingtrust@dpi.nsw.gov.au or visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au
