As part of the Minns Labor Government’s election commitment to make fishing available and welcoming for people living with disabilities, theGovernment will be hosting community events across the state to celebrate International Day of People With Disability.
International Day of People With Disability, held annually on December 3, is dedicated to increasing awareness, understanding, and acceptance of individuals living with disabilities.
The Government’s The Fish For Life program, using funds from the Recreational Fishing Trust, provides, among other things, fishing workshops specifically for people with disabilities.
This year International Day of People With Disability fishing events were held at Greenwell Point, Ballina, Gosford, Balmain, Chaffey Dam Boat ramp and Lions Park, Forbes.
The Minister for Primary Industries, Tara Moriarty, attended the Fish For Life workshop at Greenwell Point on the South Coast where she met with local disability fishers, NDIS support workers, carers and family members and inspected an accessible fishing platform.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Fishcare education officers and Volunteers work with fishing groups and disability providers to promote the benefits of fishing.
Other activities to promote fishing among people with disabilities include:
- Recreational Fishing Trust funding for Accessible Fishing Platforms, as well as a new interactive map on the DPIRD website detailing locations and facilities available at more than 350 accessible fishing platforms and locations, in NSW
- The $2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grants program which is available for fishing clubs, community groups and other organisations to apply for funding for small projects to enhance recreational fishing opportunities for communities
For more information on Fish For Life.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“Fishing is a wonderful, inclusive activity that brings people, their families, and carers together.
It encourages physical activity, fosters social connections, and provides a peaceful way to connect with nature.
“The Minns Labor Government promotes recreational fishing as an inclusive activity for everyone to enjoy. It is a fun, healthy, outdoor activity that people of all abilities can participate in.
Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:
“As a government, we want to break down barriers for people with disability to live full lives.
“That’s why we’re improving access to recreational activities like fishing, so everyone can participate in this time-honoured Australian tradition.”
State Member for South Coast, Liza Butler said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to making recreational fishing a more inclusive and welcoming activity for everyone, especially people with disabilities.
Initiatives like the ‘Fish For Life’ program highlight the Governments dedication to creating opportunities for all communities to enjoy the joys of fishing.”