Buddycare Fishing Day: Making a Difference by Caring Article by LS Zulu Photos by WO 2 Moraile Enquiries: 021 787 4697

The concept of a caring society is reaffirmed and strengthened when we recognise that physically challenged people enjoy the same rights as everyone in society. As society we have a responsibility towards their quality of life. Buddycare, a voluntary organisation that looks after wheelchair-bound and disabled people, held its 4th annual fishing event at Naval Station Durban on 30 June 2012.

All the members involved in Buddycare Fishing Day

Stemming from unforgettable experiences of previous events the fishing competition has grown from strength to strength since its meagre beginnings of just 100 participants to a turnout of over 400 people this year. The fishing competition is only open to disabled participants with a maximum of two rods being allowed, and each disabled angler is allowed two helpers.

With the competition rules clearly spelled out prior to the start of the fishing event, Durban weather as always did not disappoint, with the winter sunshine creating conducive conditions for a perfect fishing day. Family and friends ensured the day was hub of festive activities. But the day’s success would not be realised without selfless and caring support from all the sponsors with over ten sponsors contributing to the day’s success.

Buddy Care Fishing Day participants casting their lines	Chairman of Buddycare KZN, Roy Roux and Anton Franken sharing a moment

First-time participants Darrel Naicker from Phoenix had this to say about his experience “I’m glad to be part of such a unique event, its refreshing experience to spend a fulfilling day with family”.

Roy Roux the chairman of Buddycare KZN had this to express on the event “The support the Navy gives us every year really ensures the success of the day, the easy accessibility of your pier helps to the enjoyment of all participants and through our Navy this event can grow from strength to strength”.

Executive Officer, Naval Station Durban Lt Cdr Dulamo presents Darrel Naicker with SA Navy t-shirt	Acting Senior Staff Officer Public Relations, Cdr Tshabalala, speaking on the Navy's behalf during the prize giving
Acting Senior Staff Officer Public Relations, Cdr Tshabalala presenting Tristan Cullum who caught the largest fish overall with a token of appreciation

Acting Senior Staff Officer Public Relations, Cdr P. Tshabalala, representing the Chief Navy had this say on the Navy’s behalf “We all need a buddy at some stage of our lives. The collaboration between the SA Navy and Buddycare is reflection of the spirit of Ubuntu that exists among sailors in the SA Navy”.

The Fishing event was concluded by a prize giving and acknowledgement of the day’s contributors.