Ballina RSL 2025 Kids Fishing Comp success
384 kids competing and over $30,000 in prizes given away
384 kids competing and over $30,000 in prizes given away
The annual Ballina RSL Kids Fishing Competition, proudly run by the Ballina RSL Fishing Club, has been a beloved tradition for over 15 years. This year’s event was bigger than ever, with a record-breaking 384 young anglers competing and a staggering $30,000 in prizes generously donated by our incredible sponsors, including Atomic Tackle, Hooked on Brewing & BBQ, Shimano-MTB, Rapala, and Ballina RSL.
Fishing Club President Mark Newsham expressed his excitement about the day, sharing, “It’s great to see all these younger people coming out and enjoying the day. Usually, we get a chance to sit down between weighing fish, but this year it was just flat out all day. The kids brought in some great fish.”
Participants aged 5–16 years competed across several categories, targeting popular local species like Bream, Flathead, and Whiting, as well as an “Other” category that saw some truly unique catches. A special highlight of the event was the donated live fish tank, allowing catches to be brought in alive, displayed at the weighing area, and safely returned to the Richmond River—a fantastic way to combine competition with care for our environment.
We’ll see you all next year!
5-10 Year Old Category Winner | Size / Fish |
---|---|
Molly Miller | 0.88kg Bream |
Max Robinson | 200gm Whiting |
Anna Beavis | 1.82 Flathead |
Alby Zakaria | 480gm Other (Tarwhine) |
11-16 Year Old Category | Size / Fish |
---|---|
Oscar Maher | 690gm Bream |
Mav Thomas | 260gm Whiting |
Sonny Leahy | 1.3kg Flathead |
Riley Harris | 960gm Other (Dogfish) |
OTHER EDIBLE / JUDGES CHOICE | Size / Fish |
---|---|
Josh Hargreave | 660gm Trevally |
Akshay Ram | 720gm Crab |
Cannon Hamilton | 560gm Grunter |
The success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of our sponsors. From the donated prizes to the live fish tank, every contribution helped create an unforgettable experience for all 384 young competitors. A special shoutout goes to Atomic Tackle and Hooked on Brewing & BBQ for their outstanding support.
With a record 180 more entries than expected, this event continues to grow in popularity, bringing families together for a day of fun and fishing in Ballina.
As we wrap up this year’s competition, we’re already excited for what’s to come in 2026 – SAVE THE DATE: Monday 26 January 2026.
Thank you to all the kids, families, and sponsors who made this year such a standout success.
We look forward to seeing you next year at the Ballina RSL Kids Fishing Competition—a day of fun, community spirit, and memorable moments on the water!