A marine scientist from Murdoch University is using his unique expertise to ensure people with disabilities have access to the ocean and its wellbeing benefits.

Through partnering with Fishability – Fishers with Disabilities – and raising money towards starting an additional program in the Pilbara, PhD candidate Kurt Krispyn said increasing accessibility to nature had become one of his greatest passions. 

“Fishability does incredible work creating inclusive, therapeutic outdoor experiences for people who may otherwise struggle to access them,” he said. 

As a marine scientist, I see firsthand how powerful connection to the ocean and outdoors can be for wellbeing.

Mr Krispyn said it was important for scientists and science communicators to use their knowledge to create inclusive experiences. He said he believed that science should go beyond labs and research papers into sparking curiosity and making community impact. 

“We are a very curious bunch, us humans. We want to know things, explore things, and figure things out. The ocean and the outdoors are never the same, so when we are there, we are excited, captivated and focused in the moment,” he said. 

“It helps change thought patterns, see things differently and give joy.” 

He said this was abundantly clear when the Fishability crew took to the water. One keen fisherman told Mr Krispyn that his disability had initially been a barrier to enjoying his favourite pastime, but the program had given him his joy back. 

“He spoke about how much fun he has when he goes out fishing with Fishability – catching a fish or no fish, he didn’t care. But when he did catch a fish, oh boy did he light up – smiling, laughing, fist-pumping and high-fiving,” he said. 

“Seeing that excitement showed me how important and impactful this program is.” 

Mr Krispyn took part in the Busselton Iron Man competition, where he raised more than $4,000 for Fishability and secured a donation of $1000 worth of fishing gear from Whitey’s Tackle and Camping. 

He said his hope was to continue to facilitate these experiences while researching ways to preserve the environment, so people could enjoy it for generations to come. 

Through his podcast Paramount Importance, Mr Krispyn shares his knowledge in a way that is underpinned by an important mission statement - “change happens with inspiration, not instruction”. 

“The overall goal has always been to inspire people to enjoy and care for the environment – get them to feel they are a part of it. 

We should live harmoniously with our environment, and no one should be blocked from accessing it.