Fishers get chance to reel in big prizes

Challenger Beach will next weekend see anglers of all ages take to the shores for the chance to take home a range of prizes in the inaugural Challenger Beach Fishing Challenge.

Organised as a way to draw the public to the area, and to recognise the strong environmental and cultural significance of the area, the event will be held over two days at the beach in Henderson.

Rather than just reward fishers with the biggest catch, everyone who takes part in the challenge will be in with the chance to win a range of prizes in the catch and release competition.

Hosted by the Fish Army Incorporated, the event will also include plenty of activities for the family, including face-painting and a sandcastle competition, as well as entertainment.

Food trucks are also planned for the duration of the event.

A Welcome to Country will also kick off the event, which begins at 10am on Saturday.

Naval Base Holiday Association vice-president Allan Nelson said the event was a way to bring people down to the beach, which many were not aware was open for public use.

The challenge is open to all ages and only requires a gold coin donation to take part.

Prizes on offer include a three-month Roar Fitness membership, two $60 surf lessons from Gone Surfin and various fishing items.

An original Cordingley Brother’s surfboard dating from the 1960s is also up for grabs in an auction during the event. The Challenger Beach Fishing Challenge will be held next weekend, Saturday, March 9 and 10.

Fish Army co-founder Mike Pritchard said any businesses or individuals wanting to donate items for prizes could contact info@fisharmy.info.