Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly today joined Recfishwest and Healthway to celebrate 20 years of SunSmart fishing clinics by wetting a line in the Swan River from Hinds Reserve, in Bayswater, with 60 schoolchildren.
The SunSmart partnership between Recfishwest and Healthway has successfully promoted the health benefits of fishing and sun safety through community fishing clinics held between the Mid-West to the Great Southern.
The program has reached 40,000 Western Australians through school clinics and family fun days. The State Government has supported the delivery of these clinics by providing about $1 million in funding over 20 years.
During the two-hour clinics, instructors spread the SunSmart messages about wearing wide-brimmed hats, polarised sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts. They also promote the importance of sustainability for our fisheries and proper fish handling techniques.
For more details about the Recfishwest SunSmart fishing clinics being held over summer, visit https://www.recfishwest.org.au/fishing-clinics
As stated by Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly:
“We know that getting out and active is a key to living a healthy lifestyle, and this program delivers positive health outcomes for kids in a safe and supportive environment.
“We have some of the most pristine coastal and river environments in Australia, and it’s great to see so many Western Australian families learning how to fish in them safely and sustainably.
“These clinics are an affordable way to teach kids about safe fishing practices, with rods, reels and bait provided to participants.
“I want to congratulate not only Recfishwest and Healthway for their 20-year partnership, but also the Western Australian families who continue to participate and make this program a success.”
