The Cops and Koori Kids Fishing Program on the NSW coast has just had their 200th aboriginal child participate in their annual fishing workshop, run by the NSW Police Force, NSW DPI and Shoalhaven PCYC.

Designed to divert at-risk Aboriginal children and teenagers away from risk taking behavior, the Cops and Koori Kids Fishing program is also fostering a positive relationship between the Shoalhaven Aboriginal community and Police.

Founder of the program, Steve Johnson explains why the program is so important to local community:
“Getting Aboriginal children involved in a pastime which is part of the traditional Aboriginal way of life is important. Fishing has always been an integral part of the cultural and economic life of coastal and inland Aboriginal communities. Fishing provides an important source of food and is an important part of cultural and ceremonial life.”

The workshop covers topics like catch and release techniques, bag limits and of course the necessary tackle rigging know-how and casting tips needed for kids to land their very first ‘big one’. Adding to the workshop was Local Aboriginal community leader, Vic Judson who passed on the art of fishing for Luderick (also known as Black Bream), and Aunty Deirdre from the National Parks and Wildlife Service shared her skills in making rope out of reeds.

Next up for the program, is a fishing tournament in November which will give 12 local kids the chance to participate in the ‘Deadly Bass Camp and Compeition’. The two day event will be run in conjunction with the NSW DPI and Basin Lure and Fly Club Inc. on the 15th and 16th November.

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