A FILM showcasing the pioneering work of fisherman Hans Unkles attracted a large audience to a recent screening in Largs.
The event proved so popular that it had to be moved from the Vallhalladrome to the larger Barrfields Theatre to accommodate everyone.
It was captivating for the audience who laughed at some of the more comical elements – and there was a sense that Hans had been on a major journey of fulfilment, suffering various ups and downs in the process.
Hans, a creel fisherman, is recognised for transforming his vessel, the Lorna Jane, into the country’s first solar-powered fishing boat. Operating emission-free in the Sound of Jura, the boat, originally built in 1979, was retrofitted to become fully electric and has been in use for nearly three years.
Having covered thousands of miles without emissions, Hans believes it is not only unique in the British Isles but possibly across the world.
The film, presented by Hans himself, was well-received and blended humour, emotion, and technical insight while charting his journey towards sustainable fishing. It concluded with footage of the Lorna Jane’s launch day, which provided a fitting and uplifting finale.
Following the screening, Hans took part in an engaging question-and-answer session, covering many aspects of his innovative project. Among the surprises revealed was that the solar panels are designed to capture the reflection of sunlight from the sea beneath the boat’s roof, maximising energy efficiency.
Hans explained that during the summer months, the system generates enough solar power to allow two to three days of fishing each week without fuel.
The event, organised by Cairnie’s Quay Moorings Association, was very well attended, with many praising Hans’s ingenuity and the film’s inspiring portrayal of a potential new era for sustainable Scottish fishing.
Hans has continued to take the film on a number of free screenings in various fishing communities all around the country, and it was very much an eye-opener for everyone watching, and gained an enthusiastic round of applause at the end.
Largs community councillor Jamie Black was impressed with trailblazing Hans, and said: “A brilliant talk and an absolutely superb movie – I am so glad I got to see it.”
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