Riverview Fishing Classic marks ten years

THE Riverview Fishing Classic has marked its tenth year by raising $13,350 for the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club (OGSLSC) during the annual event at Riverview Family Caravan Park in Ocean Grove.

What began in 2014 as a friendly wager between three fishing boats has grown into a major fundraiser, contributing more than $80,000 to the lifesaving club over the past decade.

Riverview Fishing Classic president Jim Pound said the event started when a few keen fishermen filled their boats with fuel and placed a friendly bet on who could catch the most fish.

Their catch was later shared with campers at the caravan park for a small fee, with the proceeds donated to the OGSLSC.

“The following year, we reached out to businesses that holidayed in the area, not just local businesses, and they were happy to donate and support the lifesaving club,” Pound said.

“Since then, the event has continued to grow, attracting more sponsors and bringing our community together.”

This year’s competition featured 12 boats and 35 fishermen who landed a total of 193 fish, including 103 whiting, 77 flathead, five mackerel, and a variety of other species.

The winning boat, Team Fotheringham, topped the leaderboard with 35 fish.

Volunteers cooked the catch for campers, who also took part in raffles with prizes donated by generous sponsors.

Pound said the event is about more than just fishing; it’s about community and giving back.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the past decade and grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way.”

The funds raised were presented to OGSLSC president Lyndie Freestone to help support the club’s lifesaving efforts along the Ocean Grove coastline.

Organisers plan to build on the event’s success in the coming years by expanding sponsorship opportunities and strengthening community involvement.