8 September, 2021

Wharf lures hopefuls after regulatory thumbs-up

Torpedo Bay wharf proved a popular spot on a sunny lockdown afternoon last week, with around a dozen people spaced along its length trying their luck fishing.

Several told the Flagstaff they were chuffed to be now allowed out with their rods after a recent revisions to Alert Level 4 regulations.

Among those enjoying this new-found freedom to fish from shore, near home, was Ray, who didn’t want to give his last name. “I normally fish on a boat,” he said. But he was happy to have come from nearby to drop a line. “It’s just a good chance to get out and about, other than just a walk or a bike,” he said.

Three young tradie flatmates were also among those relishing being able to pick up an activity outdoors. With partners who were working from home in Devonport, they thought they should get out of the house and give them some space.

Two had fishing gear, but plumber Jaeden Alott had used his DIY skills to make a ‘rod’ on the day – a piece of timber, with line attached. He was yet to get a bite.

But for lockdown, the flatmates would have been holidaying together, with Mauki- no Skelton having just finished up his job in building supplies. “I was meant to be down south for a couple of weeks. This threw a spanner in the works.”

Builder Brendan Herbst said the men were also filling their down time by picking up some household activities.

“I made my first ever lemon tart the other day,” he said.