Tasmanians have the chance to land a Fishwise Community Grant, with more than $158,000 available for projects that improve the management of recreational sea fisheries and community understanding of fishing issues, the Minister for Primary Industries and Water, David Llewellyn, announced today.

“Fishing is one of Tasmania’s most popular recreational activities with one in three Tasmanians involved in recreational fishing every year,” Mr Llewellyn said.

“Through Fishwise Community Grants, individuals and community groups can receive funding for projects that will protect and promote recreational fishing activities for future generations.

“I urge anyone with an idea on how to improve recreational fishing in their community to submit an expression of interest for a Fishwise Community Grant by 6 June.

“If the expression of interest is found suitable the applicant will be invited to provide a full project proposal for further assessment.”

Mr Llewellyn said that since 1996 more than $1.2 million in Fishwise Community Grants has been provided for recreational fishing projects throughout Tasmania.

“Fishwise Community Grants are funded through the sale of recreational sea fishing licences with funds used for activities that benefit recreational fishers,” he said.

Previously funded projects include the Fishcare Volunteers program; educational programs on responsible fishing practices; events such as Take a Kid Fishing days; recreational fishing infrastructure; and surveys and research on recreational catch.

More details, including expressions of interest forms, are available online at www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/fishwise or by contacting the grants office on 6233 7042 or by email at fishwise@dpiw.tas.gov.au