BCHS Quality of care 2024 digital - Flipbook - Page 20
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Supporting former refugees to continue fishing
BCHS partnered with the Victorian Fisheries Authority
in 2023 to foster safe and sustainable fishing practices
for newly-arrived Karen people.
BCHS developed and co-designed culturally safe
resources and videos about fishing in the Karen
language.
The 12-month pilot program helped Karen people
understand Victoria’s fishing regulations and raised
awareness amongst Fisheries staff about the pre- and
post-arrival experiences of former refugees from the
Thai-Burma border.
The project included in-person education sessions, the
training of 20 ‘champions’ to share their learnings with
family and friends, and the production of a responsible
fishing welcome pack for new arrivals.
“The resources and information sessions cover topics
such as how to apply for a fishing licence, equipment
use, water safety and respectful use of waterways,”
Nido said.
BCHS Refugee Project Worker Nido said fishing was
an important cultural practice for Karen people, who
traditionally fished for survival rather than recreation.
The BCHS website now features a Victorian Fishing
Resources Hub.
“As new arrivals, Karen people may unintentionally do
the wrong things, therefore it’s important to educate
the community about these rules,” Nido said.
Pictured below: A community member
fishing by the Loddon River.
Photo by Bwe Ku Sa
20
