State honour for Maureen Hanna for her ‘selfless dedication’ as a volunteer for Fishability Albany

Long-time Fishability Albany volunteer Maureen Hanna has been recognised for her dedication to supporting the program by winning the organisation’s top WA-wide award. The 78-year-old was announced as joint winner of the 2023 Nev Thomas Award at Fishability’s annual awards night last month, along with Rose Aramini of Donnybrook. More than two decades ago Nev Thomas dreamt up a program aimed at helping people with all abilities enjoy recreational fishing and it has since spread to seven locations throughout WA. The award named in his honour is given out each year to one or two volunteers who display “selfless dedication” to the program. Ms Hanna was surprised by the award when it was presented to her on Friday by Fishability Albany co-ordinator Tim Vokins. “It is a really nice honour,” she said. “I do a lot volunteering work in different places and it’s nice to be recognised for giving back to the community.” She said she loved being involved with Fishability because those who took part each week got a lot of enjoyment out of it. “It’s a great chance for those involved to come out and socialise with each other on a weekly basis,” Ms Hanna said. Fishablity Albany runs from 9am to 11.30am each week at Emu Point Jetty.