THE inaugural Politician/Celebrity Fishing Tournament organised by the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) is hotting up with MPs from both sides of politics confirming their participation in the event.
The tournament to be held on Sunday 3 February 2013 at St Georges Basin NSW is the first of its kind and aims to profile the benefits of recreational fishing, Australia’s biggest sports-leisure activity, to politicians and the broader community. It’s estimated that 5 million Australians go fishing every year and spend over $10 billion doing so.
Invitations have been extended to all sides of politics and although our politicians will be fishing in individual teams some strong competition is expected on the day. So far Fisheries Minister Joe Ludwig will be leading the charge for the Government against a strong Coalition team including renowned NT fishing expert Nigel Scullion.
A focus of the tournament will be to promote recreational fishing to all Australians of all ages. Well known female fishing celebrities Chloe Taylor and Tanya Konsul will be joining the Tournament to ensure our pollies get the right expert advice.
St Georges basin is renowned as one of the best fishing havens in Australia and draws thousands of fishers to its shores each year. Our polllies are sure to catch a fish. All the fish caught during the tournament will be safely released back into the Basin, after they have been weighed, measured, photographed and bragged about.
Recreational fishing is Australia’s greatest pastime with over 5 million Australians going fishing annually. Recreational fishing makes a significant contribution to the economy with over $10 billion being spent on going fishing each year. Recreational fishers are also active environmentalists, protecting our unique rivers and seas.
Proceeds of the Tournament will be going to Surf Life Saving Australia and other local charities.
Further information on the AFTA Politician / Celebrity Fishing Tournament can be obtained from the AFTA Office in Canberra on 02 6282 8500.
