Member for Northern Tablelands and Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall is urging local councils and fishing clubs to apply for around $20 million in grants to enhance recreational fishing opportunities in the region.
Wednesday, 30 September 2020
NORTHERN Tablelands MP and Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall is urging all the region’s fishing clubs, local councils and community organisations to throw in a line for almost $20 million in State Government funding, through Recreational Fishing Trust.
Mr Marshall said the funding was available to help support projects in the area to improve and promote recreational fishing, such as new facilities such as scaling tables, boat ramps, floating pontoons, fish restocking efforts, improving fish habitat and educational programs, like learn to fish days.
“After years of drought in the region, this is the best opportunity to restore local fish stocks, fishing habitats and provide better facilities to encourage more people to enjoy fishing,” Mr Marshall said.
“Every year fishers pay their licence fees, and every single one of those dollars goes back into supporting the recreational fishing industry.
“Now, $20 million is ready to be reeled in through Recreational Fishing Trust grants, which would fund projects, and make a meaningful and direct difference for the fishing community.
“Every time we put out the call for applications we see terrific and unique projects, and I hope this year we see even more so that we can continue to provide fantastic fishing across the State.
“The program is open to all in the recreational fishing industry, including clubs and organisations, community groups and councils.
“If you’ve got an idea that will support fish habitats and recreational fishing in our region then please get your application in – don’t miss out.”
Grant ideas can be discussed with NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries and Mr Marshall said that applications would remain open until 30 October.
“These fantastic projects will bolster the recreational fishing industry, which already does so much for the state, including pumping $3.4 billion into our economy each year,” Mr Marshall said.
“Fishing is one of our State’s favourite pastimes, with more than one million anglers taking to our waterways annually, and each and every one of them has the opportunity to submit an application over the next five weeks.”
Funding guidelines and application forms are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
Grant ideas can also be discussed by contacting DPI Fisheries on (02) 4916 3835 or by emailing recreational.fishingtrust@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Applications are now open and close on 30 October 2020.