- Fishability's new vessel for its Perth Boat Program launched today
- The Cook Government has contributed $80,000 from the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund
- An additional $100,000 has been committed to Fishability over the next two years
Fisheries Minister Don Punch has officially launched the new Fishability WA vessel Nev Thomas II, that will help double the organisation's capacity of the very popular Perth Boat Program.
The Cook Government has contributed $80,000 through the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund, to support Western Australians with disability to access recreational fishing opportunities. Lotterywest also provided $50,000 for the fit out the new vessel.
The new vessel will also assist Royal Perth Yacht Club's Sailability programs, which provide supported sailing and learn to sail programs that offer active on-water experiences.
Last year, Fishability celebrated 20 years of service in delivering people with disability the opportunity of enjoying recreational fishing. Royal Perth Yacht Club provide the volunteer-run program with the provision of a free boat pen, honorary membership, access for Fishability clients and assistance with annual boat maintenance.
The Nev Thomas II becomes Fishability's third accessible vessel, which now operate in Perth, Mandurah, and Albany. Building the new boat has freed up the existing Perth vessel to move to Albany, which in turn will create even more opportunities for the regional city.
The new vessel is named after the late Nev Thomas, a former Department of Fisheries Liaison Officer who was passionate about making recreational fishing more accessible for people with disabilities. His vision evolved into the Fishability program as it's known today.
The Cook Government has committed an additional $100,000 for Fishability over the next two years from the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund, which puts licence fees to work on projects that enhance recreational fishing activities across the State.
More information about the program is available at fishability.org.au.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"Supporting Fishability helps to enhance the quality of life of the participants and is so important in creating friendships and opportunities for the disability community in Western Australia.
"It provides a platform to develop life skills and self-confidence and breaks down isolation through inclusive and quality recreational fishing experiences.
"Fishability's growing success can be attributed to the hard work and commitment of the wonderful volunteers and the Fishability staff.
"I am delighted that the Cook Government and Recfishwest can continue to support these opportunities, including an additional $100,000 for Fishability over the next two years, which Ihave recently approved from the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund."
