WAFIC WA Seafood Awards: Workpower claims people development award for employing people with disability

The Mid West’s largest craypot manufacturer, Workpower, has taken home an award in the 2024 Western Australian Seafood Industry Awards for employing and empowering more than 21 staff with disability. Workpower received the people development award at the Western Australian Fishing Industry Council Inc’s (WAFIC) annual awards night earlier this month. The company was recognised for its leadership and development programs, employing more than 21 staff to manufacture high-quality cray pots, alongside seven support staff. Some team members have been shaping craypots for more than 20 years. Workpower recently took over Activ workshops across the State, with the Geraldton site converting in June last year. The acquisition provided people with disability secure employment during a time when about 750 people’s jobs were up in the air. Workpower general manager Alex Growden said its mission was to empower people with disability by providing meaningful employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive culture. “We take great pride in our role as the largest craypot manufacturer in the Mid West and we are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship in every craypot we produce,” he said. “We are incredibly proud of our team and the exceptional work they do every day. Their passion, dedication and commitment to excellence are the driving forces behind our success as a leading craypot manufacturer in WA.” WAFIC chief executive Darryl Hockey said: “As an industry body, we recognise the importance of acknowledging those individuals and organisations who make a substantial contribution to benefiting our industry and Workpower are certainly a worthy recipient of this award.” Mid West deepsea crab fisherman Max Adams won the deckhand award. At the ceremony, he had the audience roaring with laughter when he began his acceptance speech by thanking his mum for making his sandwiches to go to work. Mandy Collinson from Jurien Bay won the environment award for her work turning old fishing ropes into art. She is currently working out of Broome.