MICHAEL STARKEY
Hall of Fame Inductee – 2025
Award Presented by Colin Tannahill
From his very first days on the board 9 years ago, Michael brought a spark of youthful energy and fresh thinking, transforming what was once considered an “old boys’ club” into a vibrant, forward-looking team. His vision and innovative leadership have shaped AFTA’s direction and future.
Michael’s steadfast support for my proposed AFTA restructure and fund-saving plan was instrumental in securing our financial stability. When I announced my plan to retire from the Board in 2019, Michael didn’t hesitate to rise to the challenge, taking on the AFTA Presidency with determination and a proactive spirit. Under his leadership, AFTA became even more financially robust and ready for the future.
When bushfires devastated our regions, Michael spearheaded the AFTA Disaster Fund, raising funds and launching initiatives to help people get back to fishing and assisting affected operators in rebuilding their businesses.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael was the driving force in our industry’s efforts to maintain fishing access and secure relief for our community. He tirelessly advocated for our industry, ensuring our voice was heard by governments during those challenging times.
In the wake of the NSW North Coast floods, it was Michael who led the charge, organising a recovery program and rallying financial support from AFTA members, with Frogley’s Offshore making a notable contribution, all while Michael & Mandy’s and Paul & Leslie’s own houses had been inundated in the floods.
Michael also developed and championed the “Let’s Fish” program. Born out of natural disasters and pandemic closures, this initiative spread from South Australia to Queensland, then across the nation, utilising the AFTA Disaster Fund to expand the Let’s Fish Australia campaign and keep our industry’s passion alive.
Michael’s commitment to sound financial management has always set the standard. Together, we challenged past audits, ensured transparency, and appointed an auditor who attends AFTA meetings and confirms our practices firsthand.
Never one to sit back, Michael drove the Memorandum of Understanding to foster stronger collaboration with the Boating Industry Association, thereby forging valuable industry partnerships going forward.
Beyond his formal roles, Michael has served the industry in numerous ways—as a leading supplier, event coordinator for the Evans Head Fishing Competition, and a generous contributor to disaster relief efforts in various regions.
Today, our gratitude extends as well to Mandy and their children, Alyssa & Tyler, who have supported Michael throughout his journey. Your encouragement has made a world of difference in his achievements.
Paul and Leslie, you must be exceptionally proud of Michael—and rightly so. His dedication, integrity, and hard work have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in congratulating Michael Starkey on his induction into the AFTA Hall of Fame. His leadership and passion continue to inspire us all.