Packing the car to the brim with fishing gear before setting out on a fishing adventure can often prove more difficult than actually catching a fish.
For the crew at Fishability, transporting the many specialised rods and reels needed for their south metro events has been no easy feat. However, it’s an issue they no longer have to worry about.
This morning, Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland joined Fisheries Minister Peter Tinley at Point Walter as Fishability Chairman Mike Donnelly and Executive Officer Mike McMullen were given the keys to the organisation’s new van.
“The van will help Fishability’s volunteers get to and from the various jetties from Rockingham to Coogee, Point Walter, Mount Henry Bridge and Fremantle where their volunteers hold fishing clinics,” Dr Rowland said.
“It will play an important role in helping Fishability promote inclusive participation in recreational fishing.
“Having a disability shouldn’t be a restriction to enjoying fun fishing experiences and all the health and well-being benefits fishing provides.”
Fishability was founded 20 years ago and now operates across Perth, Mandurah, Busselton, Albany and Geraldton, with plans to extend the program to Bunbury.
Minister Tinley said the handover of the van was a prime example of how licence fees could be used through the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund.
“The purchase and fit-out of the van is a $46,000 investment, which is going to make the task of setting up activities and packing up afterwards a lot easier for Fishability volunteers,” he said.
Dr Rowland applauded the Fishability team for everything they do to help more people access and enjoy WA’s amazing fishing
“Fishability is a terrific organisation which does wonderful work, assisting children and adults with the support required to get out and about to wet a line and catch a fish,” he said.
“I hope the new van serves Fishability well and I look forward to hearing about all the fish caught at the upcoming events.”