Fishing Buddies Project builds self-sufficiency and a connection with nature

Supported by a $1,250 district grant, the Rotary Club of Burleigh Heads, Qld, held two Fishing Buddies mentoring programs earlier this year to teach young people how to fish.

Run at local Gold Coast waterways on February 18 and May 26, 27 youth took part, as well as several parents and five Rotarian mentors, who provided one on one training and guidance throughout the two events.

Matched by $1,250 from the Rotary Club of Burleigh Heads, the funds were used to purchase fishing equipment, which was given to participants to use during the events and gifted to them afterwards.

They were taught how to use and look after the equipment for future use.

The program was also supported by BCF Burleigh Waters, who provided the equipment at wholesale prices and donated several items.

The Fishing Buddies Project was aimed at local youth organisations, including Police Community Youth Club (PCYC), Fight 4 Youth, the Youth Co-Respondent Team (YCRT Police/Justice Department), local schools and the general public. A Facebook invite was sent out promoting the event for young people who would like to learn how to fish but didn’t have anyone to teach them.

The project aimed to build self-sufficiency, a connection with nature, increase environmental awareness, patience and persistence, problem-solving skills, physical activity, social bonding, cultural heritage, and a respect for wildlife.

The YCRT, who brought several ‘at risk’ youth along, commented that it was one of the best early intervention programs they had seen.

The program concluded on May 29 with a presentation of surplus fishing gear to the PCYC at Broadbeach. The equipment will be used as a library for current and future youth attending the PCYC.

PICTURED: Supported by a district grant and run at local Gold Coast waterways, 27 youth took part in the Rotary Club of Burleigh Heads’ Fishing Buddies Project.