Fishers with mobility issues are once again enjoying being able to drive to their favourite fishing spots on Fremantle’s South Mole – thanks to the fishing community banding together.
Following a big reaction from the local fishing community to the Mole being closed to cars and mobility scooters, vehicle access was recently restored to the Mole.
The reopening of vehicle access allowed senior fishers and those with mobility issues to once again wet a line off this iconic rock wall catching whiting, tailor, herring, snapper and squid alongside their friends and family.
For around six months, the cherished land-based Freo fishing spot was only accessible on foot after Fremantle Ports were forced to ban vehicle access to South Mole due to illegal camping, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
Many, like Graeme French, who has fished there for decades, were concerned the closure could be permanent. However, strong support from hundreds of local fishers in a Fremantle Ports community survey helped reinstate vehicle access.
“If we stop fishing we’re just sitting at home and it’s not good for your physical or mental health. To be able to access a place like this well into your 80s makes a huge difference to your longevity of life,” said Graeme.
Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland added, “Easy access to this popular land-based metro fishing location is paramount and it’s great to see fishers like Graeme back here and able to drive along South Mole with a smile on their face.
“Recfishwest extends a big thank you to everyone who spoke up to help overturn the decision, and we appreciate Fremantle Ports for conducting proper community consultation. They understood the importance of easy fishing access in supporting the mental, social, and physical wellbeing of so many in the community.”
