AFTA congratulate The Hon. Dugald Saunders MP, Member for Dubbo on his appointment as NSW Minister for Agriculture.

In the recent press release, “Funding boost for region’s fishing enthusiasts” (October 29, 2021)

Local fishing enthusiasts have plenty of reason to smile with applications open for not one but two grant programs to improve fish habitat and promote their sport.

Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the Recreational Fishing Trust and Habitat Action grants are a fantastic opportunity to improve recreational fishing.

“From the Windamere and Burrendong Dams by boat, to the banks of the mighty Macquarie River, our region is home to some of the best places in the country to wet a line,” Mr Saunders said.

“Now’s the chance to make them even better!”

The Habitat Action Grants program is always immensely popular, and has previously funded projects to revegetate waterways, or reintroduce lost woody habitat into rivers and estuaries for fish.

Recreational Fishing Trust projects could include projects for enhancing recreational fishing, new facilities and access to fishing spots, education including fishing workshops, as well as essential recreational research. Grants are available for both large projects valued at more than $10,000 in funding and small projects involving less than $10,000.

“The best thing about these grants is they are ideas conceived by and led by locals, for the local area,” Mr Saunders said.

“Even better is that anglers can see their fishing licence fees being put to good use – this is their money being reinvested for the benefit of fish, fishers and the environment.

“I encourage all recreational fishing groups, Landcare organisations, high schools and local councils to take advantage of these fantastic funding opportunities.”