ROMA STREET PARKLAND STAGES FISHING CLINIC FOR KIDS

First, it was a sandy beach at Brisbane’s South Bank, the first of its kind in Australia. Now a recreational fishing clinic is being held in the heart of Brisbane.

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten today announced Roma Street Parkland would stage its first catch-and-release fishing event this Sunday <October 1>.

“Children aged eight to 12 will be able to use barbless hooks to fish for silver perch and freshwater mullet in the parkland’s lake,” Mr Schwarten said.

“The youngsters will be supervised by representatives of the recreational fishing industry and accompanied by a parent or carer.

Mr Schwarten said hundreds of fingerlings – perch, mullet and a few smaller varieties of fish – were introduced into the lake three years ago to help control weeds, mosquitoes and add to visitors’ enjoyment.

“By now the perch and mullet have reached a good size, so the children should have fun catching and quickly releasing them,” he said.

The fishing clinic will be held from 9.30am to 1.00pm this Sunday for a maximum of 60 children. Cost per child is $10, with all equipment provided.

Bookings are essential and can be made through the Roma Street Parkland website <www.romastreetparkland.com>. No bookings will be taken on the day.

For more information, contact the Parklands on (07) 3006 4545.