NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) will run a special workshop for Chinese and Filipino families from Western Sydney to help educate these communities about fishing safely and responsibly.
DPI Community Relations Manager, George Mannah, said the fishing and water safety workshop is organised together with the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW and Surf Lifesaving NSW, in partnership with the Asian Women at Work and the Philippine Australian Community Services.
“Fishing is a passion that crosses language barriers and cultural boundaries and wetting a line is a healthy, relaxing and family friendly activity for all Australians,” Mr Mannah said.
“Our Asian communities are high-risk for fishing and swimming incidents and we believe that education is the best way to ensure that all Australians, no matter what their language or cultural background, can enjoy fishing in a safe and sustainable way.
“Almost 150 attendees are expected to attend the workshop including women, men, children and grandparents.”
Co-ordinator for Asian Women at Work, Lina Cabaero, said the fishing workshop is one activity in a broad engagement and education program developed for our Asian community.
“Workshop participants will learn key safety and responsible fishing information that will able to share with their families and wider communities.”
Chairman of the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW, Malcolm Poole said the workshop will cover a range of topics to improve water safety awareness amongst non-English speaking communities.
“The workshop will teach swimming and fishing safety with an emphasis on rock fishing, rules and regulations, responsible fishing and conservation, as well as demonstrations on how to use safety equipment such as life jackets,” Mr Poole said.
“Fishing guides and further information on safety will be provided in various languages for all participants.”
The workshops will take place on Sunday 28 April 2013 at Mort Bay Park Balmain and its foreshores from 9:30am to 4:00pm.
Safe Fishing Tips:
· Never fish alone,
· Always plan your fishing trip well, and tell others were you will are going,
· Check the weather and tides,
· Always have the right safety gear, wear the right footwear and light clothing when fishing, off the rocks, out of a boat or from the shore,
· And remember always remain vigilant of any changing conditions.
More info visit www.safefishing.com.au
