Helping People Achieve (HPA) has joined forces with local business Shorelands to assist in the construction of four artificial reefs as part of the Territory Governments $50 million recreational fishing investment.

Three staff members from HPA have been engaged, as the only Australian Disability Enterprise in the Top End, to undertake welding on the man-made reef structures.

The structures, which replicate natural reef habitats on the sea floor, create new habitats, increase fish populations and enhance the productivity of fish stocks and are setting a new standard for the Northern Territory.

With over three quarters of the 116 planned modules complete, the construction of the artificial reefs is ahead of schedule and will be deployed next month.

Early deployment will provide a further boost to recreational fishing, with fisho’s likely to notice benefits soon after deployment.

With a lifespan of up to 100 years, the full potential of the four structures will only continue to increase until they are fully established which is estimated to take several years.

Quotes from Minister for Primary Industries and Resources, Paul Kirby:

“With HPA assisting in the delivery of this project ahead of schedule we are not only supporting local Territorians with disabilities with meaningful job outcomes, but are also receiving a high quality product.

“It’s fantastic to see Shorelands team up with HPA for construction of these reefs which, as part of our $50 million investment into recreational fishing, will only enhance the Top End fishing experience once they are deployed.”

Quotes from HPA CEO, Tony Burns:

“This partnership helps HPA achieve our vision, to inspire and empower people with disabilities, support our employees and residents as they develop confidence, independence and learn life skills.

“Being contracted to assist on a large-scale project like this helps us offer our staff opportunities to lead a fulfilling everyday life in a world where there are no barriers, making a lasting impact on an exciting project.”

Quotes from Shorelands, Arthur Hamilton:

“Shorelands and HPA have a long working history and is proud to work with a dynamic company with modern thinking processes.

“More construction companies should consider HPA for quality work on fabrication jobs, it assists their employees build their skills and achieve greater goals and we’ll be considering them on all jobs in the future.”

Media Contact: Hannah West (0436 641 108)