Recreational fishing is a form of outdoor recreation providing physiological, psychological and social benefits to the community. These benefits, while widely recognised, are inherently difficult to identify and quantify. This project will collate research efforts, initiatives and programs currently underway in Australia around the topic of recreational fishing, health and well-being. This investigation will increase understanding of the health and well-being benefits derived from recreational fishing for different community sectors and stages of life.
Determination of the health and well-being benefits to communities from recreational fishing will allow for consideration of these factors in allocation of resources. As an outdoor pursuit that can be enjoyed throughout life, it is important that the recreational fishing sector is recognised for promotion of well-being. Factors requiring consideration include a positive impact on mental health, perceived well-being, prevention of chronic disease and associated reductions in health care burden. These and other factors need to be considered for the true value of recreational fishing to be recognised. Recreational fishing is one of the few outdoor recreational activites that can be enjoyed at almost any age regrardless of skill, experieince or disability. Outcomes of Australian Institute of Criminology research investigating sport, physical activity and antisocial behaviour in youth, as well as international efforts such as the UK 'Get Hooked on Fishing' initiative aimed at providing diversions for youth from antisocial behaviour, will be included in the final analysis. This project represents a first step in consolidating the value of recreational fishing across Australia.

Value for money: There is a need to overcome the barriers to seafood consumption, particularly those cited in the general seafood consumption (Ruello, 2000) and the peri-natal seafood consumption studies conducted in Perth (McManus et al, BMC Public Health 2007). Establishing regular seafood consumption as a healthy, cost effective dietary option has the potential to impact upon short and long-term health, both in the general population and in those with specific health conditions. This study aims to develop strategies to increase seafood consumption by targeting specific sectors of the population (e.g. children, consumers) and groups with specific health conditions (e.g. pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, obesity). The project should result in increased seafood consumption with concomitant increases in value for the seafood industry.

Level of Impact: The condition/sector educational resources will be developed in user-friendly formats/programs to meet the needs of each of the specific target groups and to ensure maximum uptake. For example, condition specific resources will be in formats that facilitate discussion between general practitioners and clients to promote seafood as part of a healthy diet. They will also be extended through relevant representative bodies (e.g. WAGP Network, Diabetes Council, Heart Foundation). Resources for schools will be developed in line with existing curriculum frameworks across a range of disciplines and piloted through existing and relevant educational programs. Resources will be initially developed at a state level with the potential to be extended nationally through existing links.