Media Releases

The Nationals Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh, is encouraging local individuals, groups and organisations to apply for funding through the 2009/10 Recreational Fishing Grants Program.
“Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in Victoria and this grants program is one way fishers in the Swan Hill electorate can get something back for the fees they pay every year,” Mr Walsh said.
Mr Walsh, also Shadow Minister for Agriculture, said the RFGP was designed to improve recreational fishing opportunities across the state with funding allocated via three programs.
“Applications to the Small Grants program can be submitted year-round for projects worth up to $5000,” he said. “Those with larger scale projects of up to $100,000 can submit an application to a second grants program which closes on May 31.”
Mr Walsh said applications for Large Grants were encouraged in, but not limited to, four categories:
• Sustainability and habitat improvement;
• Fishing access and facilities;
• Recreational fisheries research; and
• Recreational fisheries-related education, information and training.
Large priority projects, usually of more than $100,000, can be funded through the RFGP Commissioning Program.
“Funding through the RFGP is available to incorporated, statutory and co-operative bodies,” Mr Walsh said.
“However, an individual with a great idea can get their angling club, school, or any other incorporated body to support and submit their application.”
Mr Walsh said eligible projects would be funded from recreational Fishing Licence Trust Account revenue received this financial year.
“In past years, successful projects in northern Victoria have included fish restocking programs like returning Murray Cod and Golden Perch to Lake Boga and the Kerang Lakes, erecting signage and electronically tracking fish populations.”
For more information about the RFGP phone 9658 4779 or email rec.fishinggrants@dpi.vic.gov.au Copies of the program guidelines and application forms are available from www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing or by contacting Mr Walsh’s office at 274 Campbell Street, Swan Hill on 5032 3154.