Kids these days…
We’ve all been guilty of grumbling from time to time about ‘kids these days’. Apparently they’re either glued to their phones, doing wheelies on e-bikes, or being a bit too cheeky for our liking. But every now and then something comes along that proves just how wrong those clichés can be. The Avoca Beach Community Association’s Junior Fishing Clinic on 28 November did exactly that. What we saw from the youngsters wasn’t disengagement or bad behaviour, but curiosity, enthusiasm, and a genuine eagerness to learn.
Happy and engaged participants
Junior Fishing Clinic Draws Strong Community Participation
ABCA hosted its first Junior Fishing Clinic last month, attracting a group of 50 enthusiastic young participants eager to learn new skills. The clinic was presented by Brock from On The Chew and Nick from Daiwa Australia, who volunteered their time to share their expertise.
Brock (On the Chew) and Nick (Daiwa) in action
The program introduced children to essential fishing techniques, including knot tying, understanding bait, local species, caring for your catch and protecting the environment around us. The young fishers were reminded of the importance of catch limits for the long-term survival of fish species. They were encouraged not only to dispose of their own rubbish responsibly, but also to help keep local waterways clean by collecting any litter they encountered.
Happy participants clutching their free gifts
Each participant left with new knowledge and a small gift, thanks to generous contributions from Daiwa and On The Chew. One lucky kid also received a special rod-and-reel combination as a lucky door prize.
Janet Aitchison, President of ABCA noted: “I was impressed by the positive energy and engagement of the attendees. They were really interested in what Brock and Nick had to say, and they clearly wanted to learn how to become better and more responsible fishers.”
ABCA extends a big thank you to Chris Roumanous of Ray White Saratoga–Kincumber for donning his apron to provide a BBQ after the session, and thanks also to Avoca Beach Rugby Club for allowing us to use their clubhouse for the event.
The success of the clinic has already prompted discussions about future sessions. Watch this space!