17 March 2016

Registrations open for the 2016 PIRTEK Fishing Challenge

17 March 2016: Australia's largest annual fishing competition, the PIRTEK Fishing Challenge is back for its 8th year to raise vital funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) and the Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit of St Vincent’s Hospital. Anglers of all ages and skill levels across Australia are encouraged to sign up and ready their rods and tackle boxes for the world's biggest fishing competition.

Registrations are now open for the one-day fishing challenge which will take place on Sunday 20 March, between 6:00am and 6:00pm. Australians will be able to join the challenge from any location in Australia by registering at www.pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au. Event officials released the list of 23 target species on 1 March to allow competitors to plan their day.

PIRTEK Brand Ambassador, Michael Guest says the national fishing challenge grows every year.

"We've raised an amazing amount of money over the last seven years. This year, we want to make it bigger and better. It's all about a bunch of fishos getting together to help support the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit. It's an opportunity to have a fun day out on the water enjoying your hobby while also making a difference," said Mr Guest.

"It's a catch and release competition. The challenge has a strong commitment to marine life conservation by encouraging participants to photograph their fish quickly and safely before releasing them back into the water. It is a very responsible way to fish for fun," he said.

The challenge's prize pool is bigger than ever with $175,000 in cash and prizes such as a Stacer 449 Outlaw Tiller steer powered by Evinrude E-tec 60hp plus trailer valued at $25,000, a BCF spending spree, tackle packs from Berkley and ABU Garcia and a Humminbird Helix 7 SI GPS. Participants pay $25 (plus postage) to enter the Challenge and receive a hat, a brag matt to measure their fish on and a sticker.

Associate Professor Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive of PCFA, says the PIRTEK Fishing Challenge is a great opportunity for the Australian community come together for a good cause.

"More than 3,300 men die from prostate cancer every year, making it the fourth leading cause of death for men," he said. "It is initiatives like the Pirtek Fishing Challenge that help sustain our research into changing that statistic."

For more information and to register visit www.pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au