OzFish, Australia’s leading fishing conservation charity, and Reflections Holidays, a Crown Land manager, have teamed up to launch a groundbreaking sustainable fishing series in New South Wales. The series, titled ‘Reflections Sustainable Fishing Series,’ kicks off with a trio of angling competitions at top fishing spots across the state: Reflections Copeton Waters (November 1-3, 2024), Reflections Burrinjuck Waters (March 21-23, 2025), and Reflections Lake Keepit (May 16-18, 2025).
Each competition boasts a $25,000 prize pool, but the focus goes beyond just catching fish. The series prioritizes responsible fishing practices and raising funds for fish habitat restoration within the local watersheds. Proceeds from entry fees will be channeled directly to OzFish’s conservation efforts.
Steve Kamper, Minister for Lands and Water and Minister for Sport, lauded the partnership, highlighting the use of Crown Land holiday parks to promote healthy waterways. He commended the initiative’s commitment to responsible fishing, a popular recreational activity in the state.
Cassie Price, CEO of OzFish, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, recognizing Reflections’ strong commitment to environmental stewardship and reinvesting all profits into maintaining its holiday parks and community reserves. The series introduces unique features designed to promote sustainable fishing, such as a catch-and-release photo system for entries and advice on proper fish handling techniques.
Nick Baker, CEO of Reflections, highlighted the organization’s dedication to minimizing its ecological impact and fostering a culture of respect for the state’s precious waterways among participants and their families. He emphasized the series’ role in educating anglers about responsible fishing practices and promoting the knowledge to others.
The initiative further aims to reduce plastic waste and encourage recycling through the placement of OzFish TackleLoop bins at each Reflections holiday park for the disposal of old fishing gear. Participants also have access to the TackleLoop Repair Tent for repairing their fishing equipment.
By combining competitive angling with a strong commitment to conservation, the Reflections Sustainable Fishing Series presents a unique opportunity to enjoy the thrill of fishing while actively contributing to the protection of Australia’s valuable aquatic ecosystems. This groundbreaking partnership sets a new standard for sustainable fishing initiatives, inspiring others to adopt responsible practices and contribute to a healthy future for our waterways.
