- The provision of valuable links and information on the TFIC website for students and educators of all ages (see: www.tfic.com.au/education_link_page.html)
- Involvement in the Tasmanian schools 'Marine Debris' program
(see: http://www.rosetta.tased.edu.au/MarineDebris/)
- Fishermen talking to students in classrooms.
- The donation of excellent teaching resources to the Woodbridge Marine Discovery Centre (with assistance from the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation)
To continue these initiatives TFIC has received generous industry sponsorship from individuals and commodity groups for the purchase of a newly released teacher/student resource named 'The Story of Seafood in Australia', authored by Tasmanian Catriona Nicholls.
Over 200 copies of this excellent publication will be donated to marine science teachers across Tasmania and included into the 30 Marine Links Kits strategically placed around Tasmania, with multiple copies being given to the Woodbridge Marine Discovery Centre.
TFIC's Chief Executive Bob Lister said today "This is a significant initiative by the Tasmanian seafood industry that has flow-on benefits to the wider community. There is a pressing need to assist in educating school children about our sustainable seafood industry and the significant benefits that flow on to most regional communities in our state. Seafood is the health food and there are many benefits in including seafood in diets, particularly for younger people."
(Right) The Story of Seafood in Australia's author Catriona Nicholls (on left) and Tasmania's Minister for Education Ms Paula Wriedt at the book launch and presentation in Hobart, 9 March 2004
"The Story of Seafood in Australia book takes the reader to the depths of Australia's oceans and rivers to discover how a variety of fish are harvested, processed and consumed. It looks at wild catch fishing and marine farming, as well as indigenous and recreational fishing. It addresses environmental issues and the move to eco-system based management of fisheries. With something to suit most age groups, this valuable study tool uses amazing facts, delightful cartoons and colourful photographs to educate and inform".
"I am very pleased that our Tasmanian seafood industry is able to further contribute to the education of Tasmanian students" Mr Lister said.
Published by the Kondinin Group in Western Australia, 'The Story of Seafood in Australia' has already won an award at The Australian Awards for Excellence in Educational Publishing. A teacher's resource kit to complement this book is nearing the final stages of development and is expected to be available soon.
Bob Lister can be contacted on 0408 146 960