Local anglers will be pleased to hear recreational fishing licence fees are being put to good use in East Gippsland with two projects successful in obtaining funding through the Victorian Government’s Small Grants Program.
The program is funded from the sale of recreational fishing licences.
Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said Funding of $1,635 has been approved for Nicholson Angling Club to run a junior angler workshop on the Nicholson River in October.
“The program will see students from Nicholson, Nungurner, Tambo Upper and Meerlieu Primary Schools learning about water safety, fish identification, bag limits and fish handling.”
“Fishing is a great pastime and the more youngsters we can introduce to angling, while at the same time educating them about regulations and importance of looking after our local fishery, the better,” said Mr Bull.
Margaret Bradley, from Nicholson Angling Club, said the funding will be well utilised by the club.
“We run an event like this one each year and have been lucky enough to access grant funding for the past few years to help make sure the day can continue. Run on volunteer power, the funding will help cover the cost of bait, equipment and catering on the day,” she said.
“With up to 95 people in attendance including teachers, students and their families, it’s a great opportunity for local people to learn more about fish care and promote angling as a family based activity,” said Mr Bull.
“East Gippsland Fishcare also received funding of $600 to run a junior angler workshop on July 17 at the Nicholson Jetty. This event will coincide with, but be separate to the Twin Rivers Bream Classic, run at Johnsonville.”
“The event will be run by Fishcare volunteers with input from Fisheries Victoria and will provide the ideal setting for families to spend time together and learn the basics of recreational fishing from experienced anglers.
“Both of these projects will promote recreational fishing to children through active participation,” Mr Bull said.
The Small Grants Program is open year round to Victorian fishing clubs and associations, not-for profit organisations, schools and government agencies and incorporated bodies, for grants up to $5000.For more information about how angling licence fees are being spent to improve fishing opportunities visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork or phone the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.