Keen Anglers have the chance to win $50,000 big ones in a 16-day fishing competition in October 2010, with the Murrindindi & Mitchell’s Lake Eildon and Goulburn River BIG$FISH competition.

Visitors to the region are encouraged to hit the water for the richest fishing competition ever held in Victoria by the Murrindindi Mitchell Bushfire Tourism Recovery Group (MMBTRG) where four tagged fish worth $50,000 each will be released into Lake Eildon and the Goulburn River –from October 2 – October 17, 2010.

“This is a great away for all Victorians and Australians, alike to come back and support those regional Victorian communities affected by the 2009 bushfires and give back to the communities, as well as having the chance to hook a fish worth $50,000”, said Geoff “Coxy” Cox – National Ambassador – BIGFI$H.

“Those wanting to take part in BIGFI$H for their chance to hook $50,000 have 16 days to haul in a winning fish. We encourage juniors and families to have a go, with a host of festivals, events and activities as part of the 16 day BIG FI$H competition. Those entering can fish from river banks and shores and be in the running to snag the prizes” said MMBTRG Chairman– Paul Albone.

The competition focuses on fresh water fish with angler’s able to cast a line in both the river and lake for a chance to win. The MMBTRG is encouraging safe and legal fishing behaviour throughout the competition and the state fishing regulations apply.

Entrants must have a valid fishing license and entries open on August 23 and can be made online at the BIGFI$H website: www.watchusgrow.com.au/bigfish

Try your luck along the banks of the majestic Goulburn River, the largest river basin in Victoria. The Goulburn River offers a wide range of fishing opportunities and challenges for novices and experts, alike.

Lake Eildon National Park is located in the northern foothills of Victoria's Central Highlands, 150km north-east of Melbourne. Situated on the shores of Lake Eildon, the park protects 27,750ha of rugged hills with open woodlands through to dense forest. Expansive and spectacular, Lake Eildon National Park offers the opportunity to experience a vast array of wildlife, natural and historic features and a wide range of recreational water activities.

The aim of the fishing competition is to encourage visitors back to the region and promote safe and proper fishing practices. All BIGFI$H Competition Terms & Conditions can be found on the competition website Come and Watch Our Community Grow!

For more information please visit: www.watchusgrow.com.au/bigfish