Artisanal fishermen give to NSRI

The Hout Bay Artisanal Fishers association last night donated R2000 to Hout Bay Sea Rescue.The association, representing just under 70 near-shore fishermen, was formed in 2006 and represents fishers from the Hout Bay area.Donovan Van De Heyden says that the money was donated from the organisation because, “ Its not just the fishers who go to sea. Its also from the families who worry. This comes form the community.”“ We have always had a good relationship with NSRI and we want to improve that, and help clarify misunderstandings. We want the fishers to be proud when they see the rescue boat and say that they donated to it.”The Artisanal fishers work form boats that are roughly 6 metres ( classic snoek boats) and catch lobster, snoek, hottentot as well as line fish. The organisation helps members to secure fishing rights and related issues, but is also involved in community development and social issues.Hout Bay Station commander, Brad Geyser, thanked the committee saying, “ We really appreciate your donation, and we will tell you what equipment we buy with it so that you know what it was used for.”Brad also offered to set up a training workshop, hosted at his station, for community members who wanted to learn more about CPR and safety at sea.