On the water with Paul Aquilina (and Skip)

Today it’s time to put on a lifejacket and cast off with Paul Aquilina, a young fisherman living on the Hawkesbury River, 90 minutes from Sydney.

Paul has never been in any doubt that he wanted to be a fisherman and no amount of early morning starts, broken down boats, stolen eel traps, or empty nets could stop him from achieving his dream. To say he’s focused on what he wants is an understatement.

From his early days of volunteering on trawlers through to him leasing boats and licenses, Paul is now a ‘multi-fisher’ who owns several different fishing licences and boats, providing a range of products to the market. Despite his young age, it’s been a long journey that has required him to make plenty of sacrifices in his life. Paul also discusses how putting in extra effort can result in premium prices for his produce.

Propagate is proudly brought to you by the good folks at the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries Young Farmer Business Program.

The Young Farmer Business Program is creating opportunities for young farmers and fishers to enter into or expand their existing businesses by helping them improve their business skills.

The Young Farmer Business Program has been funded by the NSW Government through the Department of Primary Industries to deliver a multifaceted approach to help young farmers and fishers. Our program is providing access to new business ideas, tools, products and services relevant to young farmers and fishers.

For more information on the Young Farmer Business Program please visit https://www.youngfarmer.nsw.gov.au/