YOU could say Russell Spencer is hooked on Fishcare, a state program that has made his life more sustainable and helped him to promote sustainable marine ecosystems.
The 63-year-old Forbes man started volunteering for the Department of Primary Industries’ Fishcare volunteer program just over 16 years ago.
He said at the time he was at the lowest point of his life after being forced to retire due to a serious back injury. Before the injury, he had worked in various jobs including fencing, welding, installing pools and at the abattoirs.
“I used to go to the cemetery and look for a plot. I felt there was no use for me,” Russell said.
Despite his depression, he maintained a passion for fishing – he used to fish in tournaments and was involved with local fishing clubs.
“I was born in Forbes in 1954 and I’ve got a photo from when I was three years old of the first two yellowbellies I ever caught,” he said.
A friend suggested he volunteer for the program and Russell, who was named the Central Western NSW Senior Volunteer of the Year in 2013, said it helped turn his life around.
He said all volunteers received comprehensive training and the program took them to a range of places. This year, in addition to mentoring in Forbes, Russell has already visited Tocumwal, Hay, Deniliquin, Inverell and Dubbo.
Volunteers spread awareness through a events and activities including floor shows, fishing days for children and other groups and school visits.
In Russell’s area, the program focuses on protecting freshwater ecosystems and the native species that inhabit them by promoting responsible catch-and-release and other fishing processes.
He said two of the greatest challenges in the area were cold water pollution from dams, which alters water temperature and impacts on breeding conditions, and an abundance of weirs, which prohibited free movement of some species along the rivers.
Russell said new technology, including a system that fed surface dam water into rivers instead of colder, deeper water, and spillways and fish ladders – now commonplace along the Murray River but still needed in nearby rivers including the Lachlan – were starting to make a difference.
He is proud of the fact that some of the children he has mentored are now grown up, responsible anglers. He is also pleased at the positive impact the program is having on the health of local waterways.
The father of four is expecting a grandchild this year and can’t wait to get out and share his wisdom with the next generation of his own family.
- The NSW Department of Primary Industries is looking for new volunteers for its Fishcare program across NSW. Click HERE for details.
