Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated

More Than Fishing. A Community. A Crew. A Purpose.

Making the invisible visible.

Every great journey begins somewhere. Ours began with a love of fishing, a passion for bringing people together, and a simple belief that everyone deserves to feel connected, included and valued.

Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated is a Queensland not-for-profit community association built on friendship, mateship, accessibility, inclusion, environmental conservation, mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

What started as a small Facebook fishing community has grown into something far greater than we could ever have imagined.

Today, we are a community of anglers, families, volunteers, businesses and everyday Australians who believe that fishing can be about so much more than catching fish.

It's about the friendships we build, the people we support, the environment we protect and the difference we can make together.

This is our story.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

A Childhood Love of Fishing

The story of the Pirates begins long before our association was established.

Our Captain grew up in Bundaberg, Queensland, surrounded by some of the most beautiful waterways and fishing destinations in the country.

With a family fishing shack at Baffle Creek, fishing became an important part of childhood and family life.

From the Burnett River and Elliott River to Woodgate, Burrum Heads, Baffle Creek, Winfield, Turkey Beach and the surrounding coastal communities, countless hours were spent exploring waterways, learning about fishing and developing a lifelong appreciation for the natural environment.

These experiences were about much more than catching fish.

They were about spending time outdoors, learning from others, respecting nature, making memories and discovering the incredible sense of freedom that comes from being on the water.

Those early experiences planted the seeds for what would eventually become Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated.

Finding a New Fishing Community

After moving to the Sunshine Coast as a young adult, our Captain eventually returned to the region in 2013.

Having grown up fishing the waterways of the Bundaberg region, the fishing conditions around the Sunshine Coast and Pumicestone Passage presented new challenges.

The waterways were different, the fishing techniques were different, and there was an enormous amount to learn.

Rather than trying to figure everything out alone, a simple idea emerged.

What better way to learn about fishing than to bring people together and learn from one another?

With a background in education and a genuine passion for helping others, the idea of creating a community where anglers could share their knowledge, experiences and fishing adventures seemed like a natural fit.

And so, the foundations of the Pirates began to take shape.

FROM A FACEBOOK GROUP TO A COMMUNITY MOVEMENT

Bringing People Together, One Conversation at a Time

The Pirates began as a Facebook community where local anglers could connect, ask questions, share fishing reports, exchange knowledge and celebrate their experiences on the water.

There were no grand expectations.

There was simply a desire to create a welcoming environment where people could learn from one another and feel part of something positive.

As the community grew, so did the friendships.

Members began organising informal gatherings, meeting one another in person and sharing their love of fishing beyond the online world.

One of those early gatherings was a community barbecue on Bribie Island.

It was an opportunity for people who had connected online to finally meet face-to-face, enjoy a meal, share stories and build friendships.

Community members generously contributed their time, organised prizes and helped create a welcoming atmosphere.

It was during this period that the possibility of establishing a formally incorporated not-for-profit association began to take shape.

What had started as a fishing group was becoming something with the potential to make a lasting difference.

BECOMING PUMICESTONE PASSAGE PIRATES INCORPORATED

Turning an Idea Into Something That Could Last

Establishing an incorporated association was not something that happened overnight.

It required research, planning, learning and a willingness to navigate unfamiliar territory.

From understanding Queensland's incorporated association requirements to developing governance structures, organising a management committee and creating the foundations for a sustainable community organisation, there was plenty to learn.

Much of this work was undertaken voluntarily, alongside everyday responsibilities.

At the same time, our online platform was being developed, with the website built through countless hours of learning, experimentation and determination.

The goal was to create more than a Facebook community.

We wanted to build an organisation with clear values, transparent governance and the ability to deliver meaningful community programs for years to come.

In October 2024, Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated officially became an incorporated association.

It was an important milestone, but it was only the beginning.

We knew that creating an association was one thing.

Building a community organisation that could genuinely serve people would require ongoing commitment, patience, teamwork and a great deal of volunteer effort.

And that journey continues today.

OUR PURPOSE

Fishing Is What Brings Us Together. People Are Why We Exist.

At the heart of Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated is a belief that community connection can change lives.

Fishing provides an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to spend time outdoors, develop friendships, learn new skills and experience the benefits of being part of a supportive community.

But our purpose extends well beyond recreational fishing.

Our association is committed to four interconnected priorities.

Community Connection and Mental Wellbeing

Creating welcoming environments where people can connect, develop friendships, support one another and feel a sense of belonging.

Accessibility and Inclusion

Working to reduce barriers that prevent people from enjoying fishing, boating, camping and outdoor recreation.

Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Sustainability

Promoting responsible fishing practices, environmental stewardship and the protection of the wildlife and waterways we are fortunate enough to enjoy.

Suicide Prevention and Awareness

Helping reduce stigma, encouraging meaningful conversations and supporting initiatives that remind people they matter and that support is available.

These priorities guide our decisions, our events, our partnerships and our vision for the future.

#piratesofftheplank

Making the Invisible Visible

Some of the most important struggles in life are the ones we cannot see.

Mental health challenges, loneliness, addiction, grief and emotional distress can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.

For our Captain, mental health awareness and suicide prevention are deeply personal causes.

Like many Australian families, experiences involving mental health challenges and suicidal behaviour have reinforced the importance of connection, understanding and compassionate support.

These experiences helped shape the values upon which the Pirates were built.

We recognise that we cannot solve every problem or remove every hardship someone may face.

But we believe that listening, showing kindness, creating opportunities for connection and encouraging people to seek support can make a meaningful difference.

That belief is at the heart of #piratesofftheplank, our association's suicide prevention program.

Through this initiative, we aim to raise awareness, encourage conversations, reduce stigma and generate funds to support suicide prevention activities.

Our message is simple.

Making the invisible visible.

We want people who may be struggling silently to know that their experiences matter, their voices deserve to be heard and they do not have to face life's challenges alone.

As part of our growing commitment to suicide prevention, we are developing an ambitious global awareness campaign involving a Guinness World Records attempt.

This initiative represents an opportunity to take our message beyond our local waterways and encourage conversations about suicide prevention on a much larger scale.

Money raised through #piratesofftheplank will go towards suicide prevention through the program.

We recognise that meaningful change requires collaboration, education and ongoing commitment.

We are proud to contribute to that effort in whatever ways we can.

MAKING THE OUTDOORS MORE ACCESSIBLE

Our Community Boats and Camper Trailer

We believe that financial circumstances should not automatically determine someone's ability to enjoy fishing, boating or camping.

For many individuals and families, purchasing and maintaining a boat or camper trailer is simply beyond their means.

That's why one of our proudest achievements has been developing our community equipment program.

Today, Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated has:

• Two community boats

• One community camper trailer

These resources are available for eligible association members to use free of charge, subject to booking arrangements, safety requirements and association policies.

Our aim is to provide opportunities for members to experience the outdoors, spend quality time with family and friends, and enjoy activities that might otherwise be financially inaccessible.

Whether it's a fishing trip, a family camping adventure or simply an opportunity to spend time outdoors, we want our community equipment to create meaningful experiences.

Through fundraising, donations and community generosity, we have also raised approximately $7,500 towards a boat, demonstrating what can be achieved when people work towards a shared goal.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make these resources possible.

They belong to something much bigger than any individual.

They represent what a community can achieve when people choose to help one another.

ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION

Creating Opportunities for Everyone

Accessibility and inclusion have always been important to the Pirates.

We understand that people living with disability, mobility challenges, financial hardship or other barriers can sometimes find it difficult to participate in recreational activities.

We believe that everyone deserves opportunities to enjoy our waterways and outdoor spaces.

Our association continues to engage with local government, including Sunshine Coast Council and City of Moreton Bay, to advocate for improvements in accessibility and inclusion.

We recognise that meaningful improvements take time, planning, resources and cooperation.

We also recognise that we have much to learn from people with lived experience of disability and accessibility barriers.

Our commitment is to listen, advocate respectfully and work collaboratively towards practical improvements.

An inclusive community is one where people are welcomed, respected and given opportunities to participate.

That is the kind of community we want to help build.

PROTECTING OUR WILDLIFE AND WATERWAYS

Respecting the Environment That Gives Us So Much

Our waterways are central to everything we do.

From the Pumicestone Passage and Moreton Bay to the Sunshine Coast and surrounding coastal environments, we are fortunate to live alongside extraordinary natural ecosystems.

With that privilege comes responsibility.

The Pirates are committed to promoting responsible recreational fishing, wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability.

We recognise the importance of protecting marine life, coastal habitats, birdlife and the delicate ecosystems that support our waterways.

Through community relationships and collaboration with organisations including Bribie Bird Rescue and Barefoot on the Ground Sunshine Coast, we aim to raise awareness and encourage responsible environmental practices.

We believe education, cooperation and community involvement are essential to protecting these environments for future generations.

We want our children and grandchildren to experience the same natural beauty and fishing opportunities that inspired us.

OUR COMMUNITY FISHING COMPETITIONS

Bringing Families, Anglers and Communities Together

Our fishing competitions have become an important part of the Pirates' community calendar.

They provide opportunities for experienced anglers, beginners, families and young people to participate in friendly competition while connecting with others who share a love of fishing.

Our events are about more than prizes and results.

They're about encouraging participation, sharing knowledge, supporting local businesses and creating positive community experiences.

We are especially proud of the families and young people who participate.

Introducing the next generation to fishing and responsible outdoor recreation is an important part of our future.

As the association continues to grow, we are expanding our competition calendar and exploring opportunities to bring Pirates events to additional locations.

We are also preparing for the 2027 Australian Flathead Titles, a national flathead fishing competition designed to bring together anglers from across Australia.

One of its exciting features will be a competitive rivalry between the Pirate Crew and fishing content creators.

We want these events to be exciting, inclusive and memorable while remaining grounded in our community values.

OUR PIRATES INCORPORATED AMBASSADORS

Celebrating Recovery, Resilience and Connection

We recognise that many people in our community have experienced difficult periods in their lives.

Some have faced challenges involving drugs, alcohol, mental health, relationships or personal hardship.

We believe people should not be defined solely by the challenges they have experienced.

Our Pirates Incorporated Ambassador Program aims to celebrate individuals who are making positive changes in their lives, particularly those on journeys of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

Through their involvement, we hope to promote resilience, connection, hope and the importance of supportive communities.

We recognise that recovery is deeply personal and that everyone's journey is different.

Our ambassadors are not expected to have all the answers.

Instead, we hope their experiences can help encourage understanding, reduce stigma and demonstrate that positive change is possible.

We are looking forward to further developing this program in 2027.

A GROWING COMMUNITY

Built Through Generosity, Commitment and Mateship

From our early beginnings as a Facebook group, the Pirates have continued to develop into an increasingly active community association.

Our growth has brought opportunities, responsibilities and valuable lessons.

Today, our association has recorded:

177 total subscriptions, including 162 active subscribers.

We have also developed an annual financial turnover exceeding $40,000, reflecting the increasing scale of our community activities, fundraising and operations.

These figures represent progress, but they are not how we measure our success.

For us, success is found in the people who attend their first event, the friendships formed, the families who enjoy our community equipment and the individuals who discover a sense of belonging.

Our association has also developed a growing range of initiatives and resources, including membership opportunities, business sponsorship programs, community merchandise, member loyalty benefits and publicly accessible governance documentation.

We are proud to have distributed approximately 300 Pirates fishing shirts throughout the community and are now developing our second generation of association merchandise.

Every shirt worn, membership purchased, event attended and conversation shared helps strengthen our community identity.

We are also committed to transparency and accountability.

Our governance and policy documents are available through our website so members and supporters can better understand how our association operates.

We believe trust is earned through openness, responsible decision-making and a willingness to keep improving.

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT POSSIBLE

Our Volunteers, Members, Sponsors and Supporters

One of the greatest lessons we've learned is that community organisations rely on the generosity of people who choose to give their time.

Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding.

It can also be challenging.

People have families, careers, personal commitments and responsibilities that change over time.

Like many volunteer organisations, we have experienced changes in committee membership and volunteer participation throughout our journey.

We understand that circumstances change and that people contribute in different ways and at different stages of their lives.

We are grateful for every contribution, whether someone has volunteered for a single event, served on our management committee, donated a prize, offered professional advice or simply helped spread the word.

Every contribution has played a part in getting us to where we are today.

We also recognise the extraordinary generosity of our business sponsors and community partners.

Their support helps us deliver events, provide resources, raise funds and pursue projects that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.

We never want to take that generosity for granted.

To every volunteer, committee member, sponsor, community partner and supporter who has contributed to our journey: thank you.

Your involvement matters.

And to those considering volunteering with us, we would love to hear from you.

There is always more work to be done, and many hands make an enormous difference.

LOOKING TOWARDS 2027

Bigger Opportunities. Stronger Connections. Greater Community Impact.

As we look towards 2027, we are excited about the opportunities ahead.

Our association is preparing for an ambitious year of community engagement, fishing competitions, awareness campaigns and program development.

Our plans include:

• Three scheduled community fishing competitions, with opportunities to expand into additional locations.

• The Australian Flathead Titles, bringing national attention to competitive flathead fishing and the Pirate Crew versus content creators rivalry.

• Our #piratesofftheplank global awareness campaign, including preparations for a Guinness World Records attempt focused on suicide prevention awareness.

• The continued development of our Pirates Incorporated Ambassador Program, celebrating recovery, resilience and positive community connection.

• Further improvements to accessibility and inclusion, through advocacy and collaboration.

• Ongoing development of our community boats and camper trailer program, helping members enjoy the outdoors.

• Stronger partnerships with businesses, volunteers and community organisations, creating opportunities for sustainable growth.

We know these ambitions will require significant planning, resources, cooperation and commitment.

We also know that not everything will happen overnight.

Our focus is on building responsibly, learning from our experiences and remaining true to the values that brought us together.

We are excited about the future, but we remain grateful for where we started.

JOIN THE CREW

Everyone Has Something to Contribute

Whether you're an experienced angler, someone learning to fish, a family looking for outdoor adventures, a business wanting to support the community or someone who simply believes in what we're trying to achieve, there is a place for you within the Pirates community.

You don't need the biggest boat.

You don't need the most expensive fishing equipment.

You don't need to know everything about fishing.

You simply need a willingness to connect, respect others and contribute positively to our community.

Through our Join the Ranks membership program, members can become part of the association and access opportunities, activities and benefits associated with their membership level.

Businesses can also support our work through sponsorship partnerships.

And for those who can contribute their time, skills or experience, volunteering is always appreciated.

We believe the strength of the Pirates lies in the diversity of the people who make up our community.

Different backgrounds. Different experiences. One crew.

A MESSAGE FROM THE CAPTAIN

With Gratitude, Humility and Hope

When I look back at where this journey began, I sometimes find it difficult to believe how far we've come.

What started as a simple idea to bring a few people together to learn about fishing has grown into something I could never have achieved alone.

I've always loved fishing.

Growing up around the waterways of Bundaberg and Baffle Creek gave me some of my happiest memories.

But as I've grown older, I've come to appreciate that some of the most valuable things we take away from fishing have very little to do with the fish we catch.

It's the conversations.

The friendships.

The time spent outdoors.

The opportunity to forget about life's pressures for a little while.

And sometimes, it's simply knowing that someone else is there.

My background in education taught me the importance of bringing people together, helping others learn and creating environments where people feel supported.

My own experiences with mental health and wellbeing have also taught me that life isn't always easy.

We all have our challenges.

Some are visible.

Others are carried quietly.

I've come to believe that one of the most meaningful things we can do is create opportunities for people to connect and feel that they belong.

That's what I've always wanted the Pirates to represent.

Not just a fishing club.

Not just a Facebook group.

Not just an incorporated association.

But a community where people genuinely care about one another.

I won't pretend that building the Pirates has always been easy.

There have been challenges, setbacks, mistakes and plenty of lessons along the way.

There have been times when things haven't gone to plan, when responsibilities have felt overwhelming and when I've had to learn skills I never expected to need.

But every challenge has taught me something.

And every person who has contributed has helped shape what the Pirates have become.

I am particularly grateful to the volunteers and committee members who have given their time throughout our journey.

Volunteering requires generosity, patience and sacrifice, and I recognise that everyone has different circumstances and commitments.

I'm also incredibly thankful to our sponsors, community partners, members and supporters.

Without your generosity and encouragement, many of our achievements simply wouldn't have been possible.

From our community fishing competitions to our boats, camper trailer, wildlife initiatives and suicide prevention activities, everything we have accomplished has been made possible through collective effort.

I am proud of what we've achieved.

But more than anything, I am grateful.

Grateful for the friendships.

Grateful for the lessons.

Grateful for the people who have believed in our vision.

And grateful for the opportunity to contribute something positive to the community.

As we move towards 2027, I hope we can continue building an association that is welcoming, responsible, transparent and genuinely committed to making a difference.

I hope we can encourage more families to enjoy fishing.

I hope we can help more people access the outdoors.

I hope we can continue protecting the wildlife and waterways we love.

And through #piratesofftheplank, I hope we can help encourage conversations that might otherwise never happen.

Because sometimes the smallest gestures can have the greatest impact.

A conversation.

An invitation.

A shared fishing trip.

A simple question asking someone how they're going.

We may never know how much those moments mean to another person.

But that doesn't make them any less important.

Our journey began with fishing. Our purpose continues through people.

To everyone who has been part of the Pirates' story, thank you.

And to those who are only just discovering us, welcome aboard.

We've still got plenty to learn, plenty to achieve and plenty of adventures ahead.

I look forward to seeing where this journey takes us.

Fair winds, following seas, and tight lines.

With gratitude,

The Captain
Pumicestone Passage Pirates Incorporated

Making the invisible visible.

#piratesofftheplank