THE Queensland Branch of the Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA) has established a writing scholarship in honour of one of their founding members and a pioneer in the world of sportfishing journalism, Vic McCristal.
Arguably Australia’s most influential sportfishing writer, Vic McCristal passed away in 2015 leaving a legacy of written materials as relevant today as the day they were penned.
The Vic McCristal Sportfishing Writers Scholarship recognises Mr McCristal’s outstanding contribution to sportfishing journalism and the role he played in mentoring and nurturing the next crop of sportfishing writers, many of whom have themselves become icons in the field of sportfishing journalism.
ANSA Qld president Nathan Johnson said that ANSA QLD is committed to cultivating this art form to both honour Mr McCristal and as a pathway to promote sport, conservation and integrity in fishing.
“Anyone who resides in Queensland and is interested in making a start in sportfishing journalism is welcome to apply but we are looking to give preference to those who have only limited sportfishing journalism experience.
“The scholarship will offer a financial benefit by way of a monetary contribution from ANSA Qld paid directly to the successful applicant, as well as access to two mentors who have a wealth of experience and knowledge of what it takes to be a successful sportfishing writer.
“Applying is as easy as piecing together a paragraph or two, of no more than 150 words, introducing a topic that they would like to write about based on sport, conservation and/or integrity.
“For anyone who applies and misses out this time around I would encourage them not to be discouraged because ANSA Qld is dedicated to this cause and at this stage we plan to offer the scholarship on an annual basis.
Applications for the ANSA Qld Vic McCristal Sportfishing Writers Scholarship should be sent to president@ansaqld.com.au before the 8th May 2017.
More information can be found on the ANSA Queensland website.
