Media Statement
Recfishwest urges recreational fishers to be more careful to prevent fishing related tragedies

9 January 2006

In light of the tragic fishing related drownings on the weekend, Recfishwest urges all Western Australians to be extremely careful while fishing during the school holidays.

Recfishwest praised the efforts of those who assisted the survivors of the weekend tragedy, but stressed that it was important to reduce the number of fishing related accidents.

Frank Prokop, Executive Director at Recfishwest said, "Recreational fishers need to be aware that the Western Australian coastline and boating conditions can change rapidly and can be extremely dangerous to the inexperienced. Responsible planning and assessment of conditions is vital for the safety of all fishers".

"Fishing is a fun activity for family and friends and school holidays can be a very busy time of year for boat and shore based recreational fishers. Western Australia has some of the best fishing in the world, but people must remember that no fish is worth your life" Mr Prokop said.

"I urge people to respect prevailing weather conditions before making the decision to go fishing and if the forecast or prevailing conditions raise any doubt, it is simply not worth the risk".

In January this year Recfishwest launched a fishing safety brochure to help spread the fishing safely message. This brochure is handed out at the some 70 fishing clinics Recfishwest runs around the state each year. Brochures have also been distributed by the Department of Fisheries along with being sent to tackle stores around the state.

"Everyone wants to be able to share in the stories of your fishing trip so that means doing everything you can to make it a safe, enjoyable experience" Mr Prokop concluded.


ENDS

Media Contact
Frank Prokop, Executive Director - Recfishwest 9246 3366 or 0419 949 118.

Recfishwest is sponsored by Healthway. Recfishwest encourages responsible, Sunsmart behaviour at all times.



This page last updated on 10 October 2006.