2023 Overall Winner
Our standout champion on the 2023 Competition is none other than Ryan.
Ryan's remarkable display of determination and resilience was truly commendable, as he grappled with a formidable 2-meter bronze whaler under the most challenging circumstances.
Throughout the grueling hour-and-a-half battle with the shark, Mother Nature threw her worst at Ryan. Unpleasant weather conditions prevailed, with relentless 40km/h winds veering from east to southeast, northeast, and later shifting to west, all within the span of an hour. To make matters even more daunting, rain was a constant companion. the cold and discomfort were pervasive. Nevertheless, this young man showed us the incredible heights that can be reached with unwavering perseverance and a stellar attitude.
Fate, unfortunately, had a bitter twist in store for Ryan, as his hard-earned catch was attacked by a significantly larger tiger shark in the shallow waters just 20 meters form the shore. However, it's only fitting that Ryan is awarded the grand prize for presenting the most meritorious fish and demonstrating unyielding courage as an angler at the 2023 event.
Ryan, your prize will be handed over soon.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Dorian of Springbok Foods and Kingfisher Australia fame for generously providing the coveted main prize in this category.
Well done, Ryan. You've earned every ounce of this award. We eagerly anticipate witnessing more of your dreams coming to life as you continue to chase after those colossal fish.
Check out the video of Ryan's catch below.
Meritorious Fish
An award is well-deserved by Jacque Olivier, who stands out as the sole triumphant fisherman in landing a Spanish Mackerel off the beach during this year's event.
Congratulations, Jacque, on your impressive catch! Your relentless dedication in pursuit of these elusive fish during this trip truly merits this recognition.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Henk Scheepers and his sons from Paint Right, Maroochydore, for generously sponsoring the prize.
Biggest Tailor
This year's event presented an exceptional challenging scenario.
Uncooperative weather dominated the entire week on the island. Out of the seven days, only two provided suitable conditions for productive tailor fishing.
The fish had taken up residence in deeper waters, congregating on the banks, while the broad gutters and formidable waves added to the challenge. Further complicating matters, a persistent ESE and SE wind required anglers to cast against the wind continually. As the fish dwelled in deeper waters, anglers had to brave the elements, getting wet and enduring the cold to cast their lines as far as possible. It was an arduous test, even for the most seasoned fishermen.
The recipients of the following three prizes are truly deserving, their unwavering dedication and persistence paying off admirably.
Congratulations to our top three for their remarkable catches under such demanding conditions.
Congratulations Reece, Jude and Amy-Lee, your prizes will be handed over soon.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude once more to Henk Scheepers and sons from Paint Right, Maroochydore, for generously sponsoring these prizes.
General Photos & Videos
Countless wonderful memories were created during our 2023 event, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every individual who played a role, whether as a participant, sponsor or an event contributor.
We deeply value even the simplest act of offering a helping hand on the day, and we want to express our sincere appreciation for this support.
We would like to give special recognition to the following individuals and organisations for their exceptional contributions:
Dorian Nicholson from Springbok Foods and KingFisher Australia
Don Coskey - for always being willing to lend a hand and help out
Henk Scheepers & Sons from Paint Right Maroochydore
Zasco van Rooyen from Baldwins Lawyers
Acknowledging our Sponsors
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