The role of women is poorly represented in fishing statistics and measures of productivity. There is more information available on fisheries production than there is on women's contribution to the fishing industry. Consequently, there is an immediate need for information to be gathered which will build a picture of the role that women play in the fishing industry and help to develop that role. Such information would provide insight into what areas of the fishing industry were of interest to individual women, what issues were of concern, and how women might develop an even more productive role in strengthening the fishing industry.
Developing an understanding of the issues of concern to women, improving skill levels of women involved in the fishing industry, and widening of the established network would all provide a better avenue for information exchange and support to all women across Australia .
This project has a number of objectives in meeting its overall aim to form a productive support network for women, through positive"people development", in order to enable them to develop skills that will enhance the role of women within their own working environment and the fishing industry as a whole.
Final report
Traditionally there has been little emphasis placed on the role and contribution of women in the South Australian fishing industry. Many other primary industries, most notably dairy and grains, have invested significant resources in developing the role and skills of women. This has resulted in the more effective use of what was an untapped resource, in developing the industry.
During 1996 and 1997 a group of women associated with the fishing industry in South Australia began working together to address this situation. This resulted in the formulation of the Women's Industry Network. (WIN). WIN can be best described as a group of women joined or linked by a common cause, purpose, or interest, to ensure the fishing industry has a positive future.
In February 1998, WIN held a FRDC sponsored state workshop entitled "Capitalising on the Talents of Women in the South Australian Fishing Industry." Project No: 97/348. One of the outcomes of the workshop the development of a four-point action plan for future operations of the network so that it might best serve the needs of the fishing industry. After the workshop, women from around the state have adopted essential projects to assist the development and operation of WIN on a local and state base level.
A result of the training workshop the production of an information booklet to support regional WIN women in conducting meetings and performing committee roles was developed to act as a resource tool for these women.
The Fishing for Women study resulted in producing a research study of the current situation of the role of women in fishing across Australia. It identified areas of the industry which women wanted more input and action taken. The survey data was used to develop the two day national conference. The survey also recommended further studies be undertaken with women of the Australian fishing industry focussing on "grassroots" women.
The conference participants re-enforced the findings of the Fishing for Women study and participants developed and agreed upon the formulation of a national body to carry out their vision. An acting board was given the task to fulfil the vision.
Keywords: Fishing Industry, Women, Roles, WIN, Networks
