Improvements to fishing facilities at Lake Cathie

The project is part of $3.2 million allocated across 37 projects state-wide through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust Grants.

Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams said the annual grants program put fishers' licence fees to work by reinvesting them into projects that deliver new facilities, species protection programs, research, and education.

"The great thing about this program is that it draws directly on the knowledge and experience of our passionate local fishing community to identify opportunities that will make a real difference locally," Mrs Williams said.

"Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has been granted $18,255 to install a new fish cleaning table at Jabiru Reserve, Lake Cathie, providing a safe and hygienic facility and encouraging increased participation by boating and shore-based fishers.

"Fishing is one of our favorite pastimes and across the state more than one million anglers take to our waterways each year, so it's wonderful to see projects like these designed to improve the health and vitality of our local fisheries."

Mrs Williams encouraged anglers and community members to apply for the next round of funding, which closes on October 30, with almost $20 million now available for projects that improve and promote recreational fishing across the state.

Funding guidelines and application forms are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.

Grant ideas can also be discussed by contacting DPI Fisheries on (02) 4916 3835 or by emailing recreational.fishingtrust@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

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