Fishability is officially casting its lines further in regional WA after recently launching a new Pilbara program at Point Samson Boat Harbour.
The new Roebourne and Surrounds program marks a major step forward in making fishing more inclusive across WA, connecting people of all abilities with the water, their community and each other by allowing them to enjoy the physical, social and cultural benefits of fishing.
Founded in Perth in 2000 by the late Nev Thomas, Fishability – a valued Recfishwest partner – has spent more than two decades helping people living with disability experience the joys of fishing in a safe, supportive environment.
Today, the organisation delivers nine jetty-based programs, three boat programs stretching from Albany to Roebourne, and a freshwater program in Waroona.
This latest expansion into the Pilbara has been made possible through increased funding from the State Government, enabling Fishability to bring its proven model to more regional communities and create space for Aboriginal elders and families to share customary fishing knowledge and strengthen cultural ties.
The Roebourne and Surrounds Fishability program will provide free, accessible fishing experiences for participants, their carers and families, creating opportunities for social connection, wellbeing and cultural exchange.
The program will be delivered locally by Roebourne-based coordinators Val Walker and Kathy Brooker and sessions will run monthly from April to September each year, with transport provided to ensure participants can easily attend.
Click here to watch the highlights from the Pilbara launch!
Click here to view the Fishability webpage and check availability!
Better fishing from better support
Strong local backing has been key to getting the program off the ground with Fishability engaging with local governments, community groups, disability organisations and fishing clubs, all of whom supported the establishment of a program in the region.
“The Pilbara boasts some of the best fishing opportunities in all of Western Australia so it’s very exciting to see Fishability expanding their benefits to the community in this fish-rich area of the State,” said Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland.
“We also applaud the WA Government for boosting financial support of Fishability to make this extension of its program possible.”
Fishability Chairman, Wayne Bowen, said the program would have made founder Nev Thomas proud.
“Nev’s vision was always about making fishing accessible to everyone, and this program brings that vision to life in the Pilbara,” said Wayne. “We’re excited to be expanding into communities like Roebourne, Wickham, Karratha, Point Samson and Dampier.”
