Media Statement
Recfishwest Helps Prevent Fishing Tragedies in Western Australia

19 January 2006

Fishing related deaths in Western Australia are a major concern to the community.

In response to the increasing number of rock and boat fishing fatalities in the last few years, the Royal Life Saving Society (WA Branch) and SunSmart have joined Recfishwest in producing the SunSmart FishSmart Fishing Safety brochure.

Recfishwest represents the interests of the estimated 643 000 recreational fishers in Western Australia and through various programs Recfishwest spreads the fishing safely message.

The original Fishing Safety brochure was revamped to provide a more succinct and easily read pamphlet for distribution to all participants of Recfishwest fishing clinics. The brochure will also be distributed to fishing tackle stores throughout Western Australia.

The Fishing Safety brochure has been developed as a reference for all recreational anglers on the necessary precautions and steps that need to be taken to ensure safety while fishing.

Mark Pagano the Principal Policy Officer at Recfishwest said, "Recreational fishers need to be aware that the Western Australian coastline or boating conditions can be extremely dangerous to the inexperienced and that responsible planning and assessment of conditions is vital for the safety of all fishers".

"Lives are being lost unnecessary along the Western Australian coast as people try to pursue that fish of a life time. People must remember that no fish is worth your life" Mr Pagano said.

Wayne Drew, from the Nathan Drew Memorial Trust lost his 15 year old son to a rock fishing accident. Mr Drew and the Trust give their full support to the brochure and any other recreational fishing safety initiatives. Mr Drew reminds recreational fishers "Don't risk your life for a fish; it's not worth your life. If something happens to you, it also affects your family, loved ones and the community."

"This brochure also contains the SunSmart message and outlines techniques for protecting your skin from the sun whilst fishing. It is important that people remember to apply sunscreen, wear a wide brim hat, long sleeve shirt and sun glasses whilst fishing to avoid the harmful affects of ultraviolet radiation" Mr Pagano said.

Following the launch, a roundtable discussion with key stakeholders and agencies involved with fishing safety and education will discuss new strategies to reduce the incidence of fishing related deaths in Western Australia.

ENDS

Media Contact
Mark Pagano, Principal Policy Officer - Recfishwest 9246 3366 or 0438 946 970

Brochure Launch Details
Hillarys Boat Harbour Boat Ramp
9am, Thursday 19th of January.

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



This page last updated January 2006.