Poaching Pat story praised at primary school presentation

17 September 2008

The literacy efforts of students at an Invercargill primary school will be recognised tomorrow, Thursday 18th September, at a special Ministry of Fisheries presentation.

Year 5 and 6 students at Ascot Community School will be rewarded for their story ‘Pat the Poacher’ at an event attended by the Ministry of Fisheries National Manager Compliance, Andrew Coleman, and Invercargill Fishery Officer, Peter Meulenbroek.

Earlier this year Peter Meulenbroek visited the school as part of an education programme to increase student’s awareness about fisheries sustainability and compliance.

Following his visit, the class set about producing their own story book about the exploits of a local fish thief ‘Pat the Poacher’.

“The class had obviously spent considerable time on the book and had clearly taken on board the message about the very serious issue of fish poaching,” said Peter Meulenbroek.

“Any initiatives which assist in educating the next generation of fishers and discouraging illegal fishing practices are welcomed”, he said.

The Ministry of Fisheries staff will present the class with a plaque and book vouchers in recognition of their work at the presentation.

The book can be viewed on the Ministry’s website, Starfish, here.