It’s the biggest event hosted by the little village of Mylestom and its in its 24th year … which tells you everything you need to know about the popularity of the Putt Bennett Family Fishing Festival.
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Billed as something for all ages, last year the festival reeled in more than 600 participants, 350 of whom were kids.
“Families come back year after year to be part of this … one family from out west, now comes with four generations,” festival volunteer Nick Young said.
“It’s a community event that was started when five locals pitched in the funds as a way to honour their mate Putt, who was a mentor to many a young fisher in the area.”
Nick said while it was a lot of work organising the event, volunteers and sponsors remained loyal (including Fishing Tackle Australia in Coffs Harbour) because of the enthusiasm of the kids.
“It’s incredible to see those faces light up when you hand a kid their first fishing rod … and then they are back with a bream a few hours later.”
The festival casts off this Thursday with sign-in at the North Beach Recreation and Bowling Club from 4-7pm or during weigh-ins until Saturday … adults $20, juniors $15 and family $60 (up to three children).
The festival champions family fun and sustainable fishing with catch and release encouraged. Juniors under 15 received free fishing gear on registration.
The competition comprises of individual and family prizes plus trophies for beach, estuary and deep sea classes, catch or catch & release.
For more information contact the club on 6655 4293 or visit the website at www.northbeachbowls.com.au.