From the Minister Responsible for Fisheries

Friday October 10, 2008

BAG A GRANT AND IMPROVE YOUR RECREATIONAL FISHING

Organisations wanting to improve their local fishing are encouraged to submit project proposals to the 2008/09 round of the Brumby Government’s Recreational Fishing Grants Program.

Minister Responsible for Fisheries Joe Helper said all major recreational fishing clubs and organisations, as well as many other groups, had been invited to submit proposals for projects that would improve Victorian recreational fishing.

“We know that recreational fishing is a popular pastime for Victorians and that’s why the Brumby Government is taking action to boost local fishing facilities across the state,” Mr Helper said.

“To date these grants have helped deliver major projects and are a great way to get local groups involved in enhancing fishing amenities in their local area, demonstrating our Government’s commitment to making Victoria the best place to live, work and raise a family.” 

Submissions are sought in four funding categories:

Mr Helper said the grants program had been extremely successful in previous years.

“During 2007/08, 21 grants were awarded to fund projects worth more than $1.2 million under the program,” he said.  “These ranged from a $7,900 solar light over the fish cleaning table at the Apollo Bay boat ramp to three fishing platforms on the lower Tarwin River worth $150,000.”

“Other major proposed projects funded through the 2007/08 round of the program included a floating fishing platform on the Hopkins River ($59,455), construction of stone stairs at Picnic Point, Wye River ($27,795) and in-stream structures in the Snowy River ($37,349).”

Since the Recreational Fishing Grants Program commenced in 2001, it has funded more than 220 projects worth over $8 million using recreational fishing licence revenue to improve fishing opportunities for the 550,000 Victorians who fish at least once a year.

The Recreational Fishing Grants Program is open to incorporated bodies, registered companies and government and statutory bodies but anyone interested should submit an application.

Applications for the stocking of fish will close on 12 January 2009 with all other projects applications closing on 27 February 2009.  Applicants should discuss their fish stocking proposals with the Victorian Recreational Fishing peak body (VRFish) on (03) 9686 7077 before submitting their application.

For application forms call the Program Manager Recreational Fishing Licence Revenue Expenditure on (03) 9658 4727, the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Customer Service Centre on 136 186, or visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/fishinggrants.