First WAPIL Grant hits the water with new outboard motor for Torres Strait fisher

TSRA Chairperson George Nona with David Baragud and his new outboard motor on the beach near Thursday Island with sea in background. — Safer at sea: TSRA Chairperson George Nona with David Baragud and his new outboard motor

Torres Strait commercial fisher, David Baragud from Yam Island (Iama), has become the first person to receive a replacement asset grant under the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) WAPIL project, with a new outboard motor now fitted on his boat.

He said the upgrade was a welcome boost for safety and reliability as he can now spend more time fishing and less time worrying about breakdowns.

“This grant will ensure my vessel is safer and will improve my ability to fish more regularly,” David said.

“I encourage fishers that have been sent a letter of invitation to make sure they apply. The process can be a bit scary for us fishers, but it is well worth it.”

The replacement asset grant is part of the WAPIL project, delivered by TSRA with funding support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), to support Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) fishers with safer, fit‑for‑purpose equipment.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said it was encouraging to see the first grant delivered and already making a difference on the water.

“It is an exciting time to see David with his new outboard fitted and ready to fish,” Mr Nona said.

“This is exactly what WAPIL is about – supporting our fishers with safer and more reliable equipment so they can work confidently and return home safely.”

Mr Nona said WAPIL looked at the bigger picture of Torres Strait fisheries – supporting not just fishing assets, but the full range of needs required to run a successful fishing business.

“WAPIL looks at vessel safety, compliance, equipment, skills and infrastructure together. By doing this, we are helping to build a stronger and more sustainable fishing industry for our communities,” he said.

WAPIL replacement asset grants help eligible full‑time commercial fishers replace end‑of‑life items such as outboard motors, hookah compressors and boat trailers, with a strong focus on safety at sea.

Torres Strait commercial fisher David Baragud pictured with his new outboard motor. — First grant: Iama man David Baragud with his new outboard motor courtesy of TSRA’s WAPIL project.

David said the support has made a real difference.

“When you’ve got reliable gear, you can focus on fishing. It gives you peace of mind when you’re out on the water,” he said.

TSRA is encouraging other eligible fishers who have received a letter of invitation from TSRA Fisheries to take up the opportunity and apply.

As more grants are rolled out, WAPIL, supported by NIAA funding, is set to strengthen the local fishing industry, increase professionalism and improve safety across Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) waters.

For more information contact fisheries@tsra.gov.au or 4069 0700.