Fishers cast competitive lines

Calling all fishing enthusiasts – the Orere Community and Boating Club (OCBC) is once again holding its annual Auckland Anniversary Weekend fishing competition.

The fundraiser starts on Sunday, January 25, at 6am, with weigh-ins at 2pm at Orere Point Beach Reserve.

Prizes will be awarded for the heaviest and average snapper, as well as the heaviest kingfish, trevally, John Dory, gurnard, and kahawai.

There will be raffles giving people the chance to win amazing prizes that have been generously donated by this year’s major sponsors Burnsco Manukau, and Bunnings Takanini.

Prizes include a barbeque and a Brass Monkey chiller freezer chilli bin.

There will also be food and beverages, and a kids’ tent.

Over the years, the competitions have proven to be very popular with an average 60 to 80 entrants casting their fishing lines.

The club usually raises between $1000 to $1300 dollars for the Orere Point community.

It organises many fundraisers throughout the year, including at Labour Weekend, Easter, and Auckland Anniversary Weekend.

The OCBC is a non-profit organisation that distributes $12,000 annually from events to assist similar organisations that service the community.

Club event organiser Jas Fisher says recipients include Orere School, Orere Point Volunteer Fire Brigade, Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust, and Coastguard.

“All of our other fundraisers have different recipients throughout the year. We just love to support our little community.”

After the weigh-in on Sunday, the fish that have been caught will be auctioned off with all profits going straight back to the club’s recipient community, who this year will be the OCBC members-only ramp that’s in need of structural repairs.

Fishing contest tickets go on sale online today, January 23, or on the day at the Orere Point Beach Reserve from 6am. Tickets are $15 for club members and $20 for non-members.