Volunteer needed for recreational fishing licence fee advisory group
29 October 2018
The Victorian Fisheries Authority is seeking nominations from keen recreational fishers to join a working group that provides advice to Government on how best to spend fishing licence fees.
All the money raised from fishing licences goes back directly to improving recreational fishing in Victoria. This means more fish stocked, better fishing access and healthier rivers and bays.
Victorian Fisheries Authority Chief Executive Officer, Travis Dowling, said the Recreational Fishing Grants Working Group consists of eight recreational fishers appointed for a three- year term, who collectively bring together a range of fishing knowledge and experience from across the state.
“These volunteers review and prioritise project submissions from angling clubs, community groups, councils and government agencies,” Mr Dowling said.
“They do a fantastic job and have proven that recreational fishers are passionate about protecting and growing Victoria’s amazing fisheries.”
We are looking for grass roots anglers to provide advice on the best projects that will lead to even better freshwater and saltwater fisheries in Victoria.
“The group includes one person nominated by VRFish and another representing recreational fishing business interests such as a guide, charter operator or bait and tackle retailer.
“The next term of the working group will again aim to include 50 per cent representation by females, which provides an excellent opportunity to get broader insight into better fishing opportunities across all of the community. We are committed to getting more women, children and families fishing in Victoria.”
Mr Dowling said recreational fishing licence fees were commonly allocated to fish stocking programs, fish habitat improvement, better access and facilities, fisheries education and research into popular recreational fishing species.
“Receiving advice from the right people, who love fishing and who are experts in this popular pastime is essential to improving fishing in Victoria.
“Improving fishing facilities and growing participation will help families enjoy the great outdoors together and lead active, healthy lifestyles.”