A hook for new members

IN an effort to gain new members and raise awareness, Heathcote Angling Club is inviting community members to a free barbecue on Monday.

The club was established in 1896.

“We have a photo on display in our clubrooms of members when the club was first formed,” president Rudi Frahm said.

“Over the years membership waned but was going strong again about 35 years ago.

“Unfortunately, COVID set us back again, membership dropped and the clubrooms fell into disrepair.”

Since being elected president 18 months ago, Mr Frahm has been working hard to refresh the building.

“The clubrooms are undergoing a makeover,” he said.

“We have painted and freshened up the room to make it more comfortable for our monthly meetings held on the third Monday of each month at 7pm.

“There are kitchen facilities but, on the downside, we still have no running water. I have approached council, but they have not responded.

“It is very frustrating as it is our home and here for the community.

“Men’s Shed members have offered to make some fish shapes for a feature wall and children from the primary school are going to paint them for us.

 

“The local art group is going to paint a background.”

Mr Frahm and club members visit Reflections at Eppalock to support people and their families living with dementia.

“It’s called Fishin’ Friends and we enjoy a free barbecue, coffee and cake once a month on a Sunday,” he said.

“It’s more than fishing, it’s connection.

“Our upcoming events will be on 22 February, 29 March and 26 April.

“They are held at Reflections at Eppalock, Themeda Close Kimbolton, from 10am to 2pm.”

The club is holding an Easter raffle in support of Fishin’ Friends. Prizes are an Easter hamper, groceries and a meat tray.

Tickets are $2 each or three for $5, and it will be drawn at 1pm at the HAC Fishin’ Friends event on 29 March.

Mr Frahm moved to Australia from Germany in 1966 and retired to Heathcote in 2007.

“I have been fishing all my life,” he said.

“It is a great, relaxing sport and I would love to encourage anyone who is interested, especially young people.

“They are the future of the club.

“We would also like to get club competitions going again and our annual trips away to fishing spots further afield.”

The barbecue will be held at the clubrooms at the rear of Barrack Reserve, next to the swimming pool, starting at 7pm.