Want to have a crack at one of the biggest fishing comps in Victoria? Looking for something to do on the Labour Day long weekend? How about joining us for the Shipwreck Coast Fishing Classic held in Warrnambool from 1-10 March 2014.

Warrnambool is located approximately 3hours drive west of Melbourne at the end of the Great Ocean Road. It is a picturesque town of just over 30,000 people, but in March each year the town comes alive with fishing fever.

With over $50,000 in prizes up for grabs, this comp is fast cementing itself as a ‘must-do’ with the locals and visitors alike. Entry is only $25 for adults and $5 for kids. The competition is open to the general public, and is aimed at all fishing groups, from the dedicated offshore enthusiast to kids and families, and covers a wide range of species – marine, estuarine and freshwater fish. The event also provides free educational activities for kids with a focus on fishing, environmental awareness, and sustainability of our marine resources. Look out for the free activities and loads of giveaways and prizes!

The comp concludes with the presentation event, kicking off at midday on Monday 10 March (Labour Day Public Holiday) at the Warrnambool Breakwater car park.

There are small fry, junior, and senior categories, and prizes are awarded for heaviest fish in each of the selected species, plus random draws (see the comp rules for more details). In addition, two boats will be given away. Every entrant goes into the draw to win the first boat, trailer, and motor package. Any entrant who weighs in any eligible fish goes into the draw for the second boat package!

Sponsor stands and a sustainable fishing exhibit will be included as part of the 2014 event, allowing major sponsors an opportunity to display their products directly to the competitors. The sustainable fishing exhibit provides information on issues affecting our local natural resources, and the principles and ethics of sustainable fishing and associated environmental issues. This exhibit is a fantastic initiative and has been achieved with the help of the Warrnambool City Council, plus the many groups taking part in the exhibit.

In addition, the 2014 event will be donating profits to Peters Project, a local community project to raise $5 million toward the building of a desperately needed Integrated Cancer Care Centre in Warrnambool. The centre will provide much needed radiotherapy treatment, various cancer services and support to people with cancer. More information about Peters Project can be found at www.petersproject.org.au.

What a great opportunity to be part of a fantastic event that really is giving our local community a helping hand. The 2014 Shipwreck Coast Fishing Classic promises to be a huge event, the best ever. We would love to see you there!!

Many thanks to the following platinum sponsors who make this event possible: Warrnambool City Council, Gamakatsu, Cassign, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Warrnambool Offshore & Light Game Fishing Club, Richardson Marine, Suzuki Marine, RA Slater Engineering, Men’s Hair Room, Warrnambool Toyota, BP One Stop, Rhino Tanks, NK & CM Dance Constructions, Ludeman Real Estate, Select a snack vending, Mako Eyewear, Atomic Lures, Fish Habitat Network, Thompsons Removals – Ben Pohlner