November 5, 2026
VRFish, the recreational fishing peak body in Victoria, is thrilled to welcome our new Board members following our recent Annual General Meeting.
VRFish Chairman, Mr. Rob Loats, said “We have welcomed new members Stephanie McDonald, Steven Wates and Mathew Nash to the VRFish Board who will bring a fresh perspective to our operations.”
“We also congratulate Scott Jefferis and John Spragg who were re-elected to the Board.”
The new additions will further strengthen the VRFish Board with a breadth of favourable skills, strong advocacy experience and passion for recreational fishing.
“Stephanie will be an asset to the VRFish Board with strong relationships across the sector through her work with the Boating Industry Association of Victoria and Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network. She brings to VRFish governance capabilities, board and committee experience, and advocacy skills to represent the best interests of recreational fishers.”
“Steven will bring to VRFish valuable experience as a lifelong recreational fisher, scuba diver and spearfisher as well as practical business and governance skills. Steve is passionate about protecting access to our fisheries, restoring habitat and ensuring strong fish stocks for future generations.”
“Mat is a passionate recreational fisher, community advocate and strong supporter of sustainable fisheries management. He brings to VRFish experience in leadership, project management, stakeholder engagement and practical decision-making.”
The 2026 VRFish Board Election process saw strong engagement from VRFish members including a record number of votes cast and high calibre nominees from across the state.
“This shows us that recreational fishers are passionate, engaged and driven to give back to recreational fishing in Victoria. It highlights the importance of having a strong and independent peak body representing Victoria’s recreational fishing.”
“We sincerely thank retiring Board member, Steven Relf, for his contribution to the Board over 16 years, including 10 years as Deputy Chair and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, and his highly appreciated work in representing recreational fishers.”
In 2025, Steven was awarded a VRFish Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honour which can be bestowed by the peak body, for his longstanding and valued service to recreational fishing in Victoria.
VRFish also thank Lydia Cahill and Cody McLeod for their contribution to the VRFish Board as their terms conclude.
The new and re-elected members join Rob Loats, Rita Caulfield, Jingjing Nan and Lee Spyrou on the VRFish Board.
VRFish has a gender equity board policy which has been maintained.
View more about the VRFish Board here.
