With the Murray, Goulburn and Broken rivers all close to Rumbalara Aboriginal Coop in the Goulburn Valley, a fishing competition was the ideal way to encourage community members back out onto Country.

Fallon Harris is the Rumbalara community engagement, therapeutic officer and competition organiser who also designed the competition shirt depicting a turtle family and with the Gambler’s Help phone number on the sleeve. Entrants ranged in age from one to 88 years of age with a family of 20 the largest group to enter during the two weeks of competition.

‘Covid has disconnected the community,’ said Fallon, ‘and we’re only just getting back to netball and footy training. The comp encouraged family togetherness and a bit of friendly rivalry. No one is telling anyone where their secret fishing spots are!’

Best family photo, Bonnie Joachim

Youngest angler, Wanyarra Saunders

Best camp photo, Halo Joachim

Best family photo, Zsa Zsa Joachim

Best family photo, Suzanne Taylor

Best family photo, Natasha Peterson

Under 18 fishing, Tyson Cotterall

Best random catch, Zac Gilbert

Biggest carp, Blade Larkins

Biggest cod, Sharon Berry

Oldest angler, Dixie Patten

Best camp photo, Jordan Harris

Under 12 fishing, Lucas Peterson

Photos supplied by Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative