It Will Never Work!

On Wednesday, April 23rd, HLSC hosted a full house for the screening of the award-winning Scottish documentary It’ll Never Work, featuring Hans Unkles from Tayvallich. Nearly 40 people, including some children, gathered to watch this inspiring film about the UK’s first electric commercial fishing boat – the Lorna Jane.

Set in the picturesque West Coast village of Tayvallich, the film follows Hans’ ambitious journey to transform his traditional fishing vessel into an all-electric boat. With plenty of humour, heart, and determination, Hans navigates the highs and lows of the project, from sourcing parts and solving technical problems to overcoming red tape and bureaucratic hurdles.

Directed by young local filmmaker Joe Osborn and accompanied by an original soundtrack composed and performed by another local talent, the documentary highlights not only the technical aspects of the boat’s conversion but also the tight-knit community that helped make it happen. Hans’ down-to-earth storytelling and witty observations had the audience both informed and entertained.

More than just a film about a boat, It’ll Never Work shines a light on innovation, resilience, and community spirit. Hans faced numerous challenges as the first in the UK to attempt such a project, doing extensive research and tracking down components to bring his vision to life.

Some impressive facts from the film:

• The Lorna Jane can operate for 2–3 days in summer entirely on solar power.

• It has a 60-mile range powered by five batteries.

• By no longer relying on 50 gallons of diesel a day, Hans can work at a slower, more sustainable pace—and still earn the same.

The evening wrapped up with a Q&A session, where Hans shared that he no longer comes home smelling of fuel and has far fewer maintenance issues. On cloudy days, he simply plugs the boat into shore power.