Fishers’ licence fees have been put to work, with more than $3.2 million reinvested into projects by the NSW Nationals in the state government to further the state’s recreational fishing industry through new facilities, more fish stocking, research, and education.
NSW Nationals Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall was at Lake Wallace near Lithgow to announce that $53,000 was made available for an accessible fishing platform among 37 local projects to receive funding through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust grants.
“This is licence fees being reinvested into projects that will make a meaningful and direct difference to the recreational fishing community,” Mr Marshall said.
“This accessible fishing platform at Lake Wallace will give anglers with mobility restrictions the opportunity to wet a line at this popular spot.
“Fishing is one of our state’s favourite pastimes, with more than one million anglers taking to our waterway each year, so it’s critical we keep giving them the tools they need to do what they love.
“The NSW Nationals in the state government are committed to supporting the industry and seeing it grow, on top of the increased tourism and business opportunities that recreational fishing can generate.”
Mr Marshall also encouraged keen anglers and community member to apply for funding, with almost $20 million now available for projects that improve and promote recreational fishing across the state.
“Every year we see terrific and unique projects – I hope this year we see even more so that we can continue to provide fantastic fishing across the state,” Mr Marshall said.
“If you’ve got an idea for your area then please, I urge you to get your application in.”
Funding guidelines and application forms are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au and applications close on October 30. Grant ideas can also be discussed by contacting DPI Fisheries on (02) 4916 3835 or by emailing recreational.fishingtrust@dpi.nsw.gov.au.
