Every day, 58 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer, amounting to more than 21,000 cases annually. Beyond the physical toll of treatment, many women also face emotional challenges on their road to recovery. One program offering a unique form of healing is Casting for Recovery, which combines the therapeutic benefits of fly fishing with emotional support for women recovering from breast cancer.

History of Casting for Recovery

Casting for Recovery was founded in 1996 in the USA by two women, Dr Benita Walton and Gwenn Perkins Bogart — a breast cancer reconstructive surgeon and a professional fly fisher. They recognised the potential of fly fishing to promote both physical and emotional healing. Since then, the program has grown internationally, reaching women in Canada, the UK, Ireland, New Zealand, and, since 2016, in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

In Australia, the first program was hosted by the ACT Fly Fishers in Canberra in 2016. The ACT Fly Fishers Inc. became the first Australian club to affiliate with the Casting for Recovery USA organisation, securing exclusive rights to offer the program in the ACT. Their efforts have opened new opportunities for Australian women to experience the therapeutic benefits of this innovative program.

In addition to the ACT program, retreats are also offered in Victoria and Tasmania through Mending Casts, which brings the Casting for Recovery experience to even more women in need of its healing power.

Goals of Casting for Recovery

The program’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for women recovering from breast cancer. Its specific goals include:

• Creating opportunities for friendship, networking, and emotional support.
• Providing a break from daily routines in a peaceful, natural setting.
• Offering a supportive environment where women can take control of their wellness.
• Delivering a weekend of fun and learning centred around fly fishing.
• Promoting relaxation and mindfulness through the tranquillity of the outdoors.
• Allowing participants to practice fly fishing skills and develop a new hobby.
• Ensuring that the program remains accessible, with no cost to participants.

Why Fly Fishing and Breast Cancer?

Fly fishing may initially seem like an unusual therapy for breast cancer recovery; however, its benefits are far-reaching. Physically, the casting motion in fly fishing stretches joints and soft tissues, improving mobility—especially for women recovering from breast surgery. The movements engage the chest, shoulders, and back, reducing scar tissue limitations and promoting flexibility and function.

Emotionally, fly fishing offers a peaceful, meditative environment. Time spent in nature, focused on the rhythm of casting, helps participants escape the stress of diagnosis and treatment. It provides relaxation, reflection, and the opportunity to be present. Connecting with others who have had similar experiences creates a supportive atmosphere that helps women rebuild a sense of self.

A Proven Impact

Casting for Recovery’s approach has garnered support from medical professionals and psycho-social experts alike. In 2011 and 2012, the program was the subject of a study by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network in the USA. The results were remarkable: participants experienced a statistically significant reduction in anxiety and other distress symptoms related to their recovery. The study concluded that Casting for Recovery is a valuable tool for reducing emotional distress and improving the quality of life for women recovering from breast cancer.

“Pink Ladies Day” in NSW

In New South Wales, the first Casting for Recovery “Pink Ladies Day” was organised by the New England Trout Acclimatisation Society (NETAS) in 2017 at Dutton Trout Hatchery. The event involved DPI Fisheries, the NSW Department of Health, and volunteers from various fishing clubs.

By 2019, the third Pink Ladies Day was held on November 2nd at Dutton Trout Hatchery. Four volunteers from Hastings Fly Fishers provided rods, reels, favorite flies, expert fly-casting instruction, and a delicious lunch.

For several years, Hastings Fly Fishers, in partnership with NETAS and other clubs from the Mid-North Coast and New England region, have played a key role in organising Casting for Recovery Day at the scenic Dutton Trout Hatchery in Ebor. This event allows participants to learn fly fishing in a peaceful, supportive setting. This special event offers participants the chance to learn fly fishing in a peaceful and supportive environment.

Fly fishing enthusiasts from these clubs volunteer their time to teach casting, share their passion for the sport, and provide food and support throughout the day. The event gives women recovering from breast cancer the chance to focus on themselves, connect with others, and experience healing through nature and fly fishing.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many express their gratitude for the opportunity to step away from their daily challenges and spend time outdoors, learning a new skill in a safe, welcoming space. The camaraderie and sense of community fostered at these events often result in lasting friendships and networks of support. Occasionally, participants have taken up fly fishing as their main leisure pursuit!

A Call to Action

As we continue to support Casting for Recovery in Australia, we encourage more people to get involved. Whether you’re a fly-fishing expert or simply passionate about helping others, there are numerous ways to contribute. You can get involved by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of women recovering from breast cancer, offering them hope, healing, and a sense of empowerment, one cast at a time.

For more information on how you can participate or support the program, visit www.castingforrecovery.org.au.