WITH several months to go until all the action of Mount Isa’s iconic 2016 Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic kicks off, you could be mistaken for thinking planning was yet to commence; but that’s exactly what’s happening, with the 2016 committee now formed, volunteers being called and the sponsorship campaign under way.
Having grown immensely from its humble beginnings in 1999 as a small fishing competition, the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is now renowned as Queensland’s richest freshwater fishing competition and one of outback Queensland’s iconic annual events.
An event offering great exposure for local businesses due to its far-reaching promotion and standout reputation, Clancy Corporation director Dave Clancy said partnering with the event was about more than exposure for the business.
“For us, the objective behind the fishing classic is as a major fundraiser for the fish stocking group, and the fact that it’s aimed at families is a real draw,” he said.
“We’re a proud community-minded business and a lot of our employees (and the community) have young families and enjoy fishing and relaxing out at the lake.
“Partnering with the fishing classic as naming rights sponsor allows us to show our appreciation for what the event does for the city each year, be it through raising funds for fish restocking or promoting the city’s recreational and tourism potential.”
With planning also well under way for the event’s unique entertainment line-up, event manager George Fortune encouraged the community to get behind the 2016 event and to provide input into what they would like to see in the three-day schedule.
“The fishing classic is truly a community-based event,” he said.
“While we annually host visitors from all over the country and even overseas we still like to ensure the community is heavily involved in all aspects, and that filters down to input into the line-up of entertainment and attractions.
“From community feedback from last year we have already decided to open up fishing earlier on the Friday; now due to commence at 12 noon instead of 6pm, and we would encourage anyone who wants to make further suggestions to do so via our contacts listed on the fishing classic website or social media platforms.”
To be hosted at picturesque Lake Moondarra, more details on the 2016 Clancy Corporation Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic can be found at lakemoondarrafishinglcassic.com.au