Charity Feature: Southern Seabirds Trust
Purchases of Tipping Point 'Winging It' Prosecco D.O.C., go toward a $10,000 donation to our charity partner, Southern Seabirds Trust.
We had a chance to talk to Janice Mollory, Trust Convenor of the Southern Seabirds Trust to gain a bit more insight into their efforts towards safeguarding the lives of seabirds in New Zealand and fostering seabird-safe fishing practices.
What is the main goal of Southern Seabirds Trust?
The Southern Seabirds Trust fosters seabird-safe fishing practices. Some types of seabirds like shearwaters, shags, gulls, and albatrosses are attracted to fishing boats in search of bait or fish, and this can be a fatal attraction. Fishing is part of the Kiwi lifestyle, and for some it’s their livelihood. Fishing related deaths is one of the main threats for seabirds worldwide, and something we can solve together.
What is the biggest challenge you face?
There are so many environmental issues that it can be challenging to get people’s attention. Which is why we’re extremely pleased to be teaming up with Al Brown and Constellation Brands through the Tipping Point project, to reach people in a new and fun way.
What advice would you have for recreational fishers to avoid catching seabirds?
- Sink baited hooks fast
- Keep bait and scraps covered
- Don’t leave baited rods unattended
- Sink burley deep
- Avoid using braid, or casting when loads of birds are around
- Deter birds with a squirt of water or distract them
Seabirds are trying to catching a feed for their family, just like the rest of us. They are protected by law, because they are special to New Zealand.
What will the $10,000 donation from Tipping Point D.O.C. help you achieve?
We’re planning a campaign around the slogan “Hide your Bait Mate”, and we’ve made a start with this fun video featuring Al and seabird wiz Biz Bell.
To find out more visit https://www.catchfishnotbirds.nz/
