Get hooked on fun at River to Reef Family Day

Published on 14 June 2024

Reel in the whole family for a day of fun at the River to Reef Family Day tomorrow.

Capricornia Catchments is holding its family fun day tomorrow at Emu Creek Crossing on the Fitzroy River in Wycarbah.

The family day received $3,000 through the Rockhampton Regional Council’s 2023/24 Community Assistance Program with Capricornia Catchments one of 30 local community events and programs to receive funding.

Deputy Mayor and Communities and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said the day, which starts from 9am, features a fishing competition, tree planting, a camp oven cooking competition, and children’s activities.

“The Community Assistance Program has provided substantial support to numerous local community, cultural, and sporting groups and organisations, helping them organise wonderful events that benefit the Region,” Cr Wickerson said.

“This event is not only a fun day out for the whole family, but an opportunity for the kids to learn some helpful skills like fishing, tree planting and camp oven cooking.

“It’s encouraging to see our funding program support a wide variety of events as it provides locals and visitors with plenty of options, offering a chance to explore, learn and have some fun.

“The whole day is free of charge, from entry to lunch and the kids’ activities. It’s gearing up to be a great day out.”

Capricornia Catchments President Michelle McRae said the day is open to everyone and to make it easier for people to attend, there is a free bus to transport people to the event, thanks to the CAP funding.

“People from Yeppoon, Emu Park, Rockhampton and Gracemere can book a spot on the bus which will drop them off at the event and complete a round trip to the new Riverslea Bridge at Rookwood Weir for anyone interested,” she said.

“We are running a few competitions throughout the day including a camp oven cook-off so contestants can show off their culinary skills.

“Our judges who will decide the best damper and main meal. Attendees will have the chance to taste the camp oven creations plus we are serving free burgers for lunch.

“Well-known local fisherman Nick Thompson will be in attendance giving fishing demonstrations as well as explaining the different species you’d expect to catch in the area.

“Even if you don’t own any gear, we will have some fishing kits on hand and Nick will give lessons on how to fish in freshwater.”

The day will also include the chance for anyone with green thumbs to help plant 50 trees on the riverbank.

“We have planned plenty of kid’s activities from games, arts and crafts, rock painting, colouring in competition plus origami boat making to float down the river,” she said.

“It’s a good mix of fun activities to suit all ages.”

The bus is free but with limited seats available, bookings are essential. Call the Capricornia Catchments office on 4921 0573 to book your seat.

In its 2023/24 budget, Council invested more than $290,000 across the Community Assistance Program which supports year-round community development grants, regional and local events, and five major multiyear events held throughout the year.

The next round of the Community Assistance Program is now open. Information on the program, criteria and conditions, is available here.

Applications close 8 July 2024.