Volunteer Week: The group casting out lines and hook good times helping disabled people enjoy fishing

Give someone a fish and you will feed them for a day Help someone fish and you just might change their life.

On the banks of Drakesbrook Weir, one group is doing just that — helping those who are not able enjoy the act of fishing, each week.

Equipped with specialised equipment, from motion-activated fishing lures to auto reeling rods, the volunteers at Fishability have spent the past three years working with those not able to fish to help them enjoy the pastime.

Originally casting out in the shores of the Swan River in 2003, Fishability has helped more than 70,000 people a year reel in fish all along the coast of WA.

But only one group casts into the fresh water, and they do it twice a month on the banks of Drakesbrook Weir.

Waroona Fishability has been working with the community since November 2021, giving those around town without the means or ability the opportunity to enjoy the sun and each other’s company through its specialised fishing practice.

Fishability Waroona co-ordinator Chas Riegert said the group did not always catch fish. He joked they had only managed to catch three fish over the past three years.

But he said it was not about catching fish for the people who attended — it was an opportunity to socialise and enjoy time outside with like-minded people.

“But when we do catch a fish, everybody celebrates and we make a huge deal,” Mr Riegert said.

“Everyone enjoys it. That’s the enjoyment of people who can’t get out, getting out and enjoying themselves.”

One of the fishers who can be found on the waters edge is Mr Riegert’s father Harold.

Mr Riegert said his father spent his life working on a farm, hunting and fishing, but following a stroke, he became unable to use the left side of his body.

“That was his lifestyle, hunting and fishing,” he said.

“We can cast out for him, and the rod can reel in for him, so he can sit on the edge of the water, contemplating what might be thinking about eating the bait, whilst enjoying the sunshine and enjoying other people’s company.

“So we’re helping people who can’t help themselves, but want to get out, go fishing.”

Volunteer Gary Knight said being a part of the team was his way of giving back to the community.

“It’s good for your soul, this sort of stuff,” he said.

“That’s why I do it.”

Fisher Dean Parravicini said whenever Fishability was at the weir he would be there, even if the chances of catching anything were low.

“In 12 months, I’ve caught about four fish,” he said.

Mr Parravicini said it was not about catching fish — he enjoyed being outside with his fellow fishers, hanging out in the sun.

Mr Riegert said the group was always looking for new volunteers, and welcomed anyone interested in checking it out.

For more information, visit fishability.org.au.