Volunteers sought for recreational fishing licence fees advisory group

21 October 2015

Fisheries Victoria 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 licence sales goes back directly to improving recreational fishing in Victoria. This means more fish stocked, better fishing access and healthier rivers and bays.

Fisheries Victoria Executive Director, Travis Dowling, said the Recreational Fishing Grants Working Group consisted 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 this state.

"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 also 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.

"We have an exciting goal through the State Government's Target One Million plan to reach one million Victorian anglers by 2020. Receiving advice from the right people, who love fishing and are experts in the popular pastime will help us achieve this goal.

"Improving fishing facilities and growing participation will help families enjoy the great outdoors together and lead active, healthy lifestyles."

Nominations for the working group close on 27 November 2015.

For an Expression of Interest form, contact Mr Robin Billen from Horton International on (03) 9650 2555 or via email billen@horton-intl.com.au