Fishability QLD provide a range of socially inclusive fishing opportunities for people who are vulnerable, disadvantaged and at risk of social isolation. Without support and assistance, social isolation can impact on people’s ability to participate in the community; it can contribute to or exacerbate depression, anxiety and loneliness and further impact people's lives leading to homelessness, suicidal ideation and substance abuse.
Fishability QLD aims to offer a broad range of fishing related activities that will build the confidence and skills of participants, offer opportunities to develop lasting friendships and broader social groups, and have fun.
Our Strategic Focus

Loneliness and social isolation can be very debilitating in a person’s life. Having the opportunity to access healthy community, safe and understanding people and social support often gives people the power to “keep on going!”

Respect and healthy boundaries are the key factors to staying safe and having fun. Respect builds trust and breaks down barriers.

Fishing is a life distraction and offers the brain a chance to exercise cognitive thinking which is a great strategy for combating depression and anxiety.
Testimonials
I look forward to the day every month; we have so much fun. I come from Brisbane and I am picked up and driven here by a bus on the day, so it is very easy for me to join in.
Cookie - Brisbane
GONE FISHING: As part of our activities program, we recently took a group of visitors on a fishing trip to Bribie Island! We couldn’t have ordered more perfect weather and we caught enough seaweed to make four sushi rolls . BIG thanks to Emma at Fishability QLD and Robyn at Bribie Island Boat Charters for making this fabulous day possible. #gonefishing #outandabout #3rdspacebrisbane #breakthecycleofhomelessness #communityengaged
3rd Space
You can see people transform from the beginning of the day to the end. People come back from their adventures completely free of anxiety and angst! “Fish and Forget”
Robyn – Bribie Island Boat Charters
“It’s so good to see Dad enjoying something again! He hasn’t had this much joy in his life since the stroke. Thank you Fishability QLD”
Family Member/Carer - Gold Coast
“My name is Carmel and I have been a member since Fishability Queensland began. I am 72 and am legally blind. Much of my life is ruled by anxiety and depression, a couple of phobias and the frustration my lack of independence brings. The program definitely alleviates these issues for me.
Fishability has offered me a way out of social isolation – it has given me opportunities to interact with a broad range of people of all ages and abilities – and through the program I have also formed friendships with numerous people.
Then there is the unadulterated FUN!!! Whether it be fishing off Council fishing platforms or the beach or the BBQ boats at Bribie – I wake up excited and happy knowing that I am going to have a great day. Lots of laughter, much groaning over the one that got away – sunshine, fresh air, the sounds of the water lapping – listening to the excitement of spotting a pod of dolphins and even catching an occasional fish!!!
At this point I would like to acknowledge Emma’s vision and unwavering commitment to getting this venture off the ground and working so hard at attract the funds needed to keep it going. What a woman!! She never wavers, takes great care to ensure everyone’s needs are met and that we are all having a enjoyable experience – as well as making sure we take personal responsibility for our own interactions and behaviours. Thank you so much Emma and thanks also to all the volunteers and the Board members for continuing to support the venture.
I urge anyone that is reading this and is in a financial position to offer assistance to please get behind this wonderful program.
Finally, I need to say that as a member of Fishability Queensland’s programs I feel respected and valued, supported and encouraged to support others, and l look forward to many fishing trips to come.”
Carmel and her whopper bream caught at Wynnum Jetty 43cm
TESTIMONIAL – Carmel Sakrzewski