MEDIA RELEASE
Recfishwest and Woodside teaching fishing skills in the North-West

Recfishwest is delighted to be partnering Woodside Energy Ltd in bringing the “Community Fishing Clinic Program” to the North West.  The program is pleased to welcome new sponsor, Woodside Energy Ltd, joining long standing partner Healthway as it embarks on visiting regional centres from Carnarvon to One Arm Point and Derby during April and May. 
 
The tour will bring the ‘Fish Today for Tomorrow’ and ‘SunSmart’ messages to Western Australia’s northern region through a series of free fishing clinics for children at coastal communities. “These clinics encourage sustainable fishing practices including casting techniques, selection of bait and general rigging, recognition of fish species, catch and release and aquatic conservation. 

They also cover personal safety, caring for your catch and current rules and regulations.” Executive Director of Recfishwest Frank Prokop said. The fishing clinics encourage children to become involved in a fun activity which helps to provide positive life skills such as creative decision making, problem solving, goal setting and patience. 

“Our fishing clinics encourage young people to get out and be active. You don’t have to be the strongest kid or the smartest kid to be good at fishing and you can see many participants grow in self-confidence before your very eyes.” Mr Prokop said.

“The great fishing in the north-west makes these clinics even more exciting as there have been some notable captures at previous clinics.  We practice catch and release as part of the sustainable fishing message.”

Woodside recognizes the important role they play in north-west communities and are fostering the sustainable fishing message in partnership with Recfishwest. Through this program, smaller communities such as Warralong and One Arm Point will receive clinics.

“The Recfishwest fishing clinics are extremely popular in this region.  Everyone gets something positive out of learning how to appreciate our aquatic resources and becoming a better fisher. We also ask the kids to take their grandparents or other relatives fishing as this is an inter-generational activity.” Mr Prokop said.

Media contacts:

Frank Prokop, Executive Director Recfishwest 0419 949 118
Yvette Guy Fishing Clinics Co-ordinator (Perth) P: 9246 3366   F: 9246 5955 

Following is the Itinerary including a list of dates and locations Recfishwest will be visiting which will provide great photo opportunities.

Click on this link to view the RECFISHWEST NORTHERN COMMUNITY FISHING PROGRAM - ITINERARY as a PDF

Click on this link to view photos taken of clinic in progress at the launch

This page last updated on 21 April 2010.