Eight Thursday Island Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) fishers have completed first aid training that could save a life when fishing in the Torres Strait.

The training was part of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Wapil 2 Project, which aimed to increase the capability and capacity of full-time TIB fishers to grow the region’s fishing industry.

Seasoned Torres Strait Islander fisher Thomas Fujii was part of the first cohort to complete the course and said this knowledge will be invaluable when he and his team are fishing in remote waters.

“Wapil 2 first aid training through the TSRA is important for us TIB fishers,” Mr Fujii said.

“We are often on our own, so knowing how to do CPR and provide first aid until help arrives can save a life.

“This type of training is essential,” he said.

The TSRA collaborated with the Australian Marine Safety Authority (AMSA) to ensure the right advice and support was provided to TIB fishers.

TSRA Chairperson, Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the next phase of the Wapil 2 Project will see the Fisheries Program provide grant support for eligible fishers to access vital safety equipment.

“Safe practices and life-saving fundamentals was a major focus of the project,” Mr Stephen said.

“It was important for commercial fishers to be equipped with the right safety training, before we look to providing new safety kits,” he said.

Marine safety equipment was the next phase of the Wapil 2 Project and the TSRA has already responded to an urgent call for support for a fisher on Mer.

“We want all fishers to come home safely to their families with their crew, their catch and their equipment intact,” Mr Stephen said.

The first aid training was funded by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) and delivered at TAFE Queensland, Thursday Island Campus.

Wapil 2 is a 3-year project, funded by the TSRA, DESBT and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).

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