Western Australia Minister for Fisheries Dave Kelly

Celebrating 20 Years Of Recfishwest SunSmart Fishing Clinics

Victor P Taffa

• Healthway-funded clinics help promote sustainable and safe fishing practices
• Fishing is an outdoor activity and families learn the benefits of being SunSmart
• 40,000 participants across Western Australia now enjoy the clinics every year

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.

“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.” Minister for Fisheries Dave Kelly said.

“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.”

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.

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.