THIS YEAR’S Bjelke-Petersen Dam Inland Fishing Classic is to be held on October 4-5, 2003, run by the Bjelke-Petersen Dam Fish Management Committee. The focus of this popular competition is on families, with prize categories for all sections of participants.

All major prizes are determined by lucky draws, and two of the major prizes to on offer are a Mercury MotorGuide 30lb thrust electric motor (Bay City Marine) and two nights’ accommodation at Airlie Beach (Club Crocodile). There are also secret weight prizes and prizes for the best fish in each category. Juniors are well catered for with separate divisions, and are also eligible for the main prizes. There’s both a Catch and Release section and a Gilled and Gutted category. The maximum number of fish allowed to be produced at any Gilled and Gutted weigh-in is two per eligible species.

The entry fee is $15 per competitor, which includes the Catch and Release competition and entry into all the lucky draws. The organisers will accept entries right up to the weekend, but entries for the early bird draw need to be received prior to 5pm on October 1. There will be two weigh-ins on Saturday and one on Sunday, and the briefing of competition rules will take place at 8pm on the Friday night.

Accommodation is available at Yallakool Tourist Park on the banks of BP Dam (ph. (07) 4168 4746). A bar, BBQ, food and drink stalls will be available at the competition venue all weekend. Other hot meals etc and tackle are also available at the Yallakool Café.

Fishing permits are required for all persons 18 years of age and over who fish in Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Permits can be obtained at selected agencies in your local area, and are available at the Yallakool Tourist Park.

All profits from the comp go towards restocking the dam. For entry forms or enquiries phone (07) 4168 1558 or (07) 4163 1191. – Les Kowitz