Newly acquired boat opens the door for Albany Fishability participants to try their luck in deeper waters
Keen Albany Fishability participants are now able to throw in a line a little further offshore after the program was handed the keys to the Nev Thomas last week.
The fully accessible 6.5m boat had spent the previous 18 years servicing Perth Fishability, but was able to be moved to its new home on the south coast following the acquisition of a new boat in Perth.
It has allowed Albany Fishabilty to officially launch its own boat program to add to its weekly jetty-based program.
Fishability patron Graham Edwards travelled to Albany to help launch the boat program on Friday.
“Fishing is a treasured part of our wonderful WA lifestyle and everyone should be able to enjoy it, including people with disabilities,” he said.
“With the launch of the new Perth vessel the Nev Thomas II, the Nev Thomas has found its new home in Albany.
“Albany is one of our most vibrant programs and we are so pleased to be able to increase access to boat fishing opportunities in the region.”
He also thanked the State Government and City of Albany for supporting the initiative to bring the boat to Albany by providing it a pen at Emu Point Boat Harbour free of charge.
Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens said she was delighted to see the Nev Thomas arrive in Albany.
“I know how much joy and skill the Albany Fishability program brings to participants and this new addition will add a fabulous new dimension to the program for fishers to enjoy on the south coast,” she said.
Albany mayor Greg Stocks said helping establish the boat program marked a “significant milestone” in the city’s commitment to providing recreational opportunities for all.
“I am delighted to launch this program and look forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on our community,” he said.
Fishability welcomes participants to throw in a line each week from 9am at Emu Point Boat Harbour.
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