
By Victoria Velton On the fields of St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie, hundreds of family members, friends and supporters gathered to honour the memory of Will Murdoch, as his closest mates took to the field for their final Will Murdoch Shield as a school cohort. Held at St Teresa’s College this year to bring the carnival closer to Will’s own backyard, the annual rugby league nines brought together students from his own Gilroy Santa Maria College, Ingham State High School and St Teresa’s College for an evening of football and remembrance. The occasion marked an emotional milestone, with Will’s classmates reaching Year 12 and playing in the Shield together for the final time before graduating. In a moving display of respect, each school retired the number nine jersey, Will’s playing number, while his senior jersey, bearing the name ‘Murdoch’, was proudly displayed at the top of the field. For many gathered, it was a reminder of his enduring presence, with some reflecting through tears that his spirit was watching over the team that evening. For his best mates, Connor and TJ, the carnival remains a special way to celebrate a boy whose love of rugby league continues to bring people together. “Me and Willie were mates all through our primary and junior schooling, he loved his footy. Now we celebrate that,” Connor said. “I think it’s good just to come together every year, and around his birthday as well, to celebrate it.” TJ, who played alongside Will from Year 5, said the occasion meant a great deal to him. “It means a lot playing this game for him,” he said. “It’s all about spirit and just playing for him every time.” With Will’s senior cohort preparing to graduate, the carnival is now entering a new chapter. From 2027, the Shield will transition to an annual Under 13s rugby league nines carnival, allowing younger players to carry the tradition forward. The changing of the guard was marked during the opening ceremony, with Year 7 and 8 teams from all three schools taking part as curtain-raisers to the Opens fixtures. The ceremony also included a reading of a poem written by local poet Johnny Pearce, celebrating Will’s spirit, cheeky personality and love of the game. His best mate Connor read the poem, which remembered a boy whose heart and determination on the field far outweighed his size. Will’s mother, Kelly, thanked those who continue to honour her son through the annual event. “Days like today remind me that Will has not been forgotten. His name is being spoken. His memory is being honoured, and the friendships he made are still bringing people together,” she said.
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By Helen Cook For 100 years, the Tully Tigers have united generations of players, families and supporters, building a proud rugby league tradition. This week, the club celebrates its centenary with a dinner dance at Tully State High School and special cemetery tours remembering those who helped shape its history. Established in 1926, Tully Rugby League's proud history includes the 1939 Wilson Cup victory and the prestigious 1963 North Queensland Foley Shield triumph, captained by former Australian representative Bob Banks. Over the decades, Tully has produced outstanding rugby league talent, including local cane farmer Angelo Crema, who represented Queensland and Australia, and Queensland representative Danny Clifford. More recently, the club's junior ranks have produced NRL stars Jake Clifford and Queensland State of Origin forward Thomas Flegler. The club has also developed female talent, including former Tully State High School student and dual NRLW premiership winner Romy Teitzel, while the Tigers' under-13 girls reached the Far North Queensland grand final this year. The centenary dinner dance, on Saturday 17th October at Tully State High School's multipurpose centre, will bring together past and present players, supporters and volunteers. Former Tully junior and North Queensland Cowboys player Jake Clifford will be a special guest, with Brisbane band Vegas Please providing the entertainment. For many, it will be a chance to reconnect with old teammates, share memories of famous victories and celebrate the generations of families who have kept the Tigers roaring. But behind the premierships and famous players are countless others whose contributions have been just as important to the club's 100-year story. Those people are being remembered through special evening tours of Tully Cemetery on Thursday 15th and Saturday 24th October, organised by Suzi Reis and a group of local families. Suzi, who was involved in the Tully 100 and Tully Sugar centenary cemetery tours, said the stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who helped shape the club. "Some of them are people you've heard of but never knew their story," she said. Her own mother helped establish the Tigers' canteen around 1970, raising money to support the club. "If you're a footy fanatic like my family are, it's a way of life. It's what we do every weekend," she said. Among those remembered is Henry Alfred Taylor, who suffered a devastating injury while playing for Tully against Babinda in 1946. His relative Don Taylor will share the story of the 18-year-old, who died seven days after the match. Another is Geoffrey Arthur Nash, who came from Cairns to play football in Tully and made the town his home. His daughter-in-law Janelle Nash and granddaughter Lydia are helping preserve his story, including his lifelong friendship with fellow footballer Norm Reeves, whose ashes were returned to Tully and buried nearby. Deidre Holmes, president of the Mission Beach Historical Society, is also involved. "I think it's really important that everybody looks back at the past and the people that made the community and built our little town here," she said. Other stories include the contributions of the Jones and Pease families, Kane Banu and passionate football supporter Olivo Ciuccolo. Together, the dinner dance and cemetery tours offer two ways to celebrate a century of Tigers history – honouring the achievements on the field and the people and families who made them possible. The cemetery tours begin at 5.30pm on Thursday 15th and Saturday 24th October. Meet at the new cemetery, wear your Tigers shirt, bring a torch and make a gold coin donation to the Tully Hospital Foundation. 1: Suzi Reis (left) with fellow organisers and family members at Tully Cemetery, where former Tigers player Jeff Nash's headstone features a footballer wearing his number six jersey. Photo credit: Helen Cook 2: Tully’s Rugby League Football Club's undefeated junior premiers of 1962 Back row, from left: E. Kratzman (manager), R. Mollenhagen, J. Flegler, J. Costigan, K. Pease, G. Kratzman, P. Dore, L. Crema and R. Pease (vice-president). Front row, from left: G. Jago, K. Pease, A. Pease (captain), J. Forrisi, J. Pease and B. Kaukiainen. Photo supplied
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Katrina O’Brien’s Giant Trevally has taken out this week’s Catch of the Week! Known for their dexterous and powerful builds, and hard-fighting nature, Giant Trevally are a highly sought-after catch for local anglers wanting to test their strength. Katrina’s catch is a stunning silver example of this formidable tropical species. Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week! Katrina O'Brien and her Giant Trevally. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club
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Perfect bowling weather provided the ideal conditions for the final of the Consistency Competition, with M. Owen defeating N. Mammarella 150–80 to take the honours. In social bowls, I. Byrn, A. Burns, D. Tomba and J. Cassanovas played out a 17-all draw against Irene, D. Bull, N. Evans and G. Wright. In the other social game, B. Eddleston, A. Foti and S. Ryan defeated J. Johnson, J. Fenoglio and L. Dibella 15–11. Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan & Elsa Piotto Caption: 1. Consistency Singles Winner, M Owen. Photo supplied 2. Finalists, N. Mammarella and M. Owen. Photo supplied
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Photos sourced: Cardwell Parkrun
Palm Creek parkrun #146 – 22 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee – 18:55
Final finisher: Steven Veltmeyer – 1:00:16
PBs: 1 | First timers: 5
Volunteers: Julie Mac Pherson, Christine Knickel, Amanda Towner, Matteo Mancuso, Steven Veltmeyer, Bridgette Duffy

Cardwell parkrun #407 – 25 finishers
Fastest time: Toby Gordon – 21:19
Final finisher: Desiree Lake – 53:12
PBs: 0 | First timers: 9
Volunteers: Anita Davina, Terry McDonald, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Desiree Lake, Dave Ball, Kerry Snell

Photo credit: Palm Creek & Cardwell Parkruns
This past weekend saw the organisation of Parkrun celebrate its 22nd anniversary. To celebrate the runners of Palm Creek donned their most wonderous tutus to share the celebration. Another huge milestone was celebrated at Cardwell Parkrun with congratulations going to Jason on 450 Parkruns.

Palm Creek parkrun #145 – 30 participants
Fastest time: Carter Hague (18:47)
Final finishers: Lynda Amisano (1:20:26), Nowell Tento (1:20:29) and Bridgette Duffy (1:20:34)
PBs: 1 | First timers: 5
Volunteers: Steven Veltmeyer, Simon Niam, Judah Niam, Matteo Mancuso, Bridgette Duffy

Cardwell parkrun #406 – 24 participants
Fastest time: Jake Ball (21:48)
Final finisher: Maryanne Hare (52:24)
PBs: 4 | First timers: 7
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Jake Ball, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Maryanne Hare, Kerry Snell





Leon Wuttrich and his Large Mouth Nannygai. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club
Leon Wuttrich’s Large Mouth Nannygai has taken out this week’s Catch of the Week! Known for their distinctive red colouring, large mouths and powerful build, Large Mouth Nannygai are a prized catch for reef fishers and are highly regarded for their quality on the table. Leon’s catch is a great example of this impressive local species.
Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!

Photo sourced: Ingham Bowls Club
Congratulations to Noorla on taking out the 2026 Irene Paris Trophy, with bowlers from Noorla, Macknade and Ingham coming together for the annual competition.
The event also provided an opportunity to recognise the continued support of the Aranas family, who have sponsored the Irene Paris Trophy for many years.
Noorla thanked all of its players who contested the event, as well as Ingham for its hospitality and everyone who took part for their sportsmanship. This year also saw some of Noorla’s ladies step onto the green to fill positions during the competition, with the club thanking them for helping make the event possible.
The Aranas family will also be formally recognised by the club on Sponsors Day in appreciation of their ongoing support.
Meanwhile, Ingham Bowls Club Ladies Triples were played this week, with N. Mammerella, G. Wright and L. DiBella defeating B. Eddleston, A. Foti and J. Fenoglio 27–9.
J. Johnson, J. Casanovas and M. Owen defeated I. Byrns, M. Moore and S. Ryan 18–14.
In the Social game, E. Piotto and A. Burns defeated T. Rhodes and D. Toomba 17–15.

Age is no barrier: Dina Campagnolo (80), Louis Campagnolo (86), Louie Darighello (78) and Rita Pezzutto (80) enjoy regular pickleball games in Tully
It’s recently been described as Australia’s fastest-growing sport – and Tully discovered the appeal of pickleball around five years ago.
What began with a small group of local tennis players looking for something to do when wet weather stopped play, has grown into the Tully Mission Beach Pickleball Club, with more than 50 members – including enthusiastic players well into their 80s.
Current Club President Jenny Flegler said the group approached Cassowary Coast Regional Council about trying the new sport in the Igloo.
“They learned to play through no coaching, just by word of mouth and over the internet,” Jenny said.
Edith Thomas became the club’s first president and, although now retired from playing, remains an active supporter.
In 2025, the club moved to its new home at the Tully Showgrounds, a move involving considerably more than simply taking the nets and paddles down the road. Members raised money, applied for grants and worked with Council to develop the new playing space, including its dedicated court surface and industrial fans.
“We’ve had to raise a lot of money ourselves and apply for grants,” Jenny said. “Council contributed, but we have a lot of people to thank, who put in a lot of work.”
With the new home up and running, the invitation is open to everyone to give the game a go. The indoor courts mean year-round play while the smaller court and doubles format make pickleball accessible across the generations.
“Four pickleball courts would fit into one tennis court if you turn them sideways,” Jenny said. “There’s not a lot of running in pickleball. So, at any age, you can play.”
While some members compete in Cairns and Townsville and travel to the outdoor club in Cardwell, social fun, friendship and fitness are at the heart of the club. Beginners are eased into the game, learning where to stand and move safely before joining regular play.
Saturday morning’s Come and Try session is a chance to borrow a paddle, hit a few balls and simply “see what it’s like”. For anyone wondering whether they’re too old, too inexperienced or not fit enough, Jenny’s message is simple: “It’s a very sociable sport, come and have a go.”
PICKLEBALL 101
The kitchen: It’s not where you make the tea. The “kitchen” is the area immediately beside the net, officially known as the non-volley zone. You can’t stand in it, or on the line, to hit a volley. If the ball bounces first, you can step in to play it.
The dink: A soft, controlled shot played just over the net into your opponent’s kitchen. The aim is to keep it low, making it difficult to attack. A well-placed dink can win the point.
COME AND HAVE A GO
Where: Pavilion 1 (Stan Mackay Building), Tully Showgrounds, Butler Street, Tully
When
Email: tullymissionbeachpickleball@gmail.com

Dylan Crema proudly wears his world championship medal and holds his Council honour, with trainer Tracee Tozer, parents Maria and Peter, and Mayor Teresa Millwood
Tully’s Dylan Crema has added a hometown honour to his growing medal collection, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council recognising the two-time Adaptive CrossFit world champion for his remarkable international success.
Mayor Teresa Millwood presented Dylan with a special Council award this week, following his successful defence of his world title in San Jose, California, in July.
It was the latest milestone in an extraordinary rise for the Tully athlete, who has competed at three consecutive world championships, finishing sixth at his first in Dallas, Texas, before winning in Las Vegas and successfully defending his title in San Jose.
This year’s event brought together more than 325 adaptive athletes from 34 nations, competing across multiple divisions over a demanding three-day program.
Born with Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome (VCFS), Dylan discovered CrossFit after taking up exercise during COVID. His support worker and CrossFit trainer Tracee Tozer helped turn that early interest into consistent training and, ultimately, world titles.
“I did some research and realised that there was an adaptive comp,” Tracee said.
“Dylan was open to having a go, and then he put in the hard yards, and we could see that he was really good at it.”
Adaptive CrossFit enables athletes with disabilities to compete in classifications appropriate to their abilities, tackling workouts incorporating strength, endurance, gymnastics and weightlifting.
Dylan has reached the top of his sport without the resources of a major training centre. Much of the hard work happens in Tracee’s backyard gym in Tully, with Dylan competing independently rather than representing a CrossFit gym.
Dylan’s mum Maria said the sport had also transformed her naturally shy son’s confidence and introduced him to a new community of friends.
“I don’t think that would have happened if he hadn’t found CrossFit,” she said.
Mayor Millwood praised Dylan’s hard work, dedication and determination, telling him his community was proud of his achievements.
For Dylan, the formula behind becoming a two-time world champion remains refreshingly simple. His advice to others? “Have fun, get fit and feel good.” And to Tracee, Matt, Andy, his family and everyone who has helped him along the way: “Just a big thank you.”

Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving competitors at the Arcadian Surf Carnival Photo source: Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club has welcomed competitors and supporters home for its own carnival after a strong showing at the recent Arcadian Surf Carnival. The club recorded a number of podium finishes across the water and beach events, with Michael, Mariam, Evie and Reuben among the individual winners, while Forrest Beach teams also claimed multiple relay victories.

The club is now looking ahead to its home carnival at Forrest Beach on 10th and 11th October, with nominations open through LiveHeats until midday on 2nd October.
The new 2026/27 patrol season has also commenced, with patrols returning to the beach and operating from September through May.

1st Place
Michael: Masters Male Sprint
Michael: Masters Male Flags
Mariam: Open Female Sprint
Mariam: Open Female Flags
Evie: U11 Female Sprint
Reuben: U8 Male Wade
Reuben: U8 Male Deep Water Wade
Open Mixed Beach Relay
Open Mixed Wade Relay
U9 Mixed Beach Relay
U9 Mixed Wade Relay
U8–U10 Wade Relay: Team A

2nd Place
Evie: U11 Female Flags
Thea: U10 Female Sprint
Reuben: U8 Male Flags
Open Mixed Board Relay
U10 Mixed Beach Relay
U10 Mixed Wade Relay

3rd Place
Stephen: Open Male Sprint
Stephen: Open Male Flags
Stephen: U17 Male Sprint
Stephen: U17 Male Flags
Kurtis: U11 Male Flags
Thea: U10 Female Flags
Harrison: U10 Male Sprint
Thomas: U9 Male Flags
U10 Mixed Board Relay
U9 Mixed Board Relay
U8–U10 Wade Relay: Team B

Forrest Beach To Rainbow Bay 2026/27 Patrol Season
Patrols run from September through to May.
Patrol Hours: Saturday: 1:30pm – 5:00pm & Sunday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Beach Safety Reminders: Always swim between the red and yellow flags, listen to our trained lifesavers, and stay informed about conditions.

The stinger net will be installed from early November

Katrina O'Brien and her Coral Trout. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club
Katrina’s stunningly speckled coral trout has taken out this week’s Catch of the Week, showing off the quality of fish coming from our local waters. It’s certainly a catch worth celebrating!
Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!

Photo credit: Cardwell Parkrun
Palm Creek parkrun #144 – 31 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (18:46)
Final finisher: Christine Knickel (1:00:44)
PBs: 2 | First timers: 8
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Erin Cerutti, Simon Niam, Matteo Mancuso, Christine Knickel
Cardwell parkrun #405 – 30 participants
Fastest time: Jake Ball (21:54)
Final finishers: Phoebe Pembroke and Celeste Pembroke (1:10:30 and 1:10:31)
PBs: 0 | First timers: 7
Volunteers: Kerry Snell, Marcus Ritchie, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Celeste Pembroke, Phoebe Pembroke

(L-R) J Bell, N Mammarella, K Rotondo & J Fenoglio. Photo supplied: Elsa Piotto
Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan
Conditions were again unfavourable for bowls, with the wind testing players’ ability to remain consistent throughout the day.
The Club Fours final delivered exactly what a final should, with a thrilling one-point finish, seeing J. Bell, N. Mammarella, K. Rotondo and J. Fenoglio as they defeated D. Bull, M. Spano, L. DiBella and E. Piotto 17–16.
In the Consistency Games on Monday, N. Mammarella defeated N. Evans 152–138, while M. Owen defeated J. Casanovas with 116 points.
Social play took place, with A. Burns, B. Eddleston, A. Foti and S. Ryan defeating Mrs Mac, I. Byrns, M. Moore and D. Tomba.

Year 11 and Year 12 Tully State High School students go head to head at the Walker Cup. Photo supplied
The annual Walker Memorial Cup took place at Tully State High School last week, with the Year 12 team eventually taking the win after a close and competitive match.
Held each year in honour of the two Walker boys who tragically passed away, their family has chosen to continue their legacy through sportsmanship and camaraderie.
The event also aims to raise awareness of men’s mental health, connection, mateship and looking out for one another.

Bruce Walker attended on the day and generously donated funds towards replacing the football goalposts on the school oval this year.
A battle between the year groups, the annual event sees the Year 11 team challenge the Year 12 team in a bout of friendly rivalry.

Player of the Game went to Mulacek (Year 10), who stepped up to play for the Year 12 team and was named Player of the Game by Andrew Cripps.
Meanwhile, the LJ Carlaw Medalist – Players’ Player award went to Ben (Year 12), who was voted Players’ Player by his teammates.

“Thank you to everyone from our school and wider community who came along to support our students. Your presence and support made the day even more meaningful,” said a school spokesperson.



Anglers hoping to throw a line into the 20th annual Cardwell Barra Bonanza will need to get their entries in soon, with registrations already approaching 80 per cent.
The Cairns Hardware Cardwell Barra Bonanza will return from October 22nd to 24th, bringing anglers together for one of North Queensland’s major catch-and-release sportfishing competitions.
With places filling quickly, organisers are encouraging anyone planning to compete to register now rather than risk missing out. The 2026 event also offers plenty of incentive to get involved, with a major prize boat among the prizes available to entrants.
The senior entrant prize is a custom wrapped 440 Quintrex Busta Boat and Trailer Package fitted with a 60hp Yamaha tiller-steer motor, valued at nearly $40,000.

Anglers will also be competing for the prestigious John Carter Trophy for Grand Champion Barramundi, with awards recognising senior and junior champions, runners-up, teams and veteran anglers.
There will be prizes for anglers recording the largest accumulated lengths of Mangrove Jack, Javelin Fish and Threadfin Salmon, as well as Mystery Length and Best Photo awards.
Teams can include two or three anglers, with no requirement for all team members to fish from the same boat.
The briefing night is Thursday, 22rd October at 6pm, at the Cardwell Community Centre where entrants are required to collect their entrant's bag with their shirt, brag mat, name tag (with number) and the rules. One person from each team must attend the briefing night.
The fishing begins at 6am on Friday, 23rd October, with submissions closing at 4pm on Saturday, 24th October.
And for those chasing even more chances to win, the event’s Mega Raffle offers three tickets for $5, with prizes including vouchers, accommodation, tours and gift packs from businesses across the region.
With registrations already nearing capacity, anglers are encouraged to secure their spot now. Register at cardwellsportfishingclub.com.au

Young local athlete Chase Frumento represented Peninsula in baseball for the second consecutive year, earning MVP honours in the team's opening game at the 2026 State Championships. Photo supplied: Chloe Frumento
Young local athlete Chase Frumento is proving his sporting talents extend well beyond one field.
An accomplished young cricketer, Chase’s success on the cricket pitch has seen him represent Cricket Far North (CFN) for the past two years.
Also hitting the athletics track, Chase has represented Peninsula in the throwing events of hammer throw, javelin, discus and shot put.
But it doesn’t end there. Most recently, Chase added baseball to his arsenal, after his schoolteachers encouraged him to trial for the sport last year.
Despite being relatively new to the game, Chase successfully earned a place on the Peninsula team and competed at the 2025 state championships. The experience sparked interest, and Chase spent the following year training hard, developing his skills and learning more about the sport.
His work paid off when he was once again selected for the Peninsula baseball team in 2026, earning the opportunity to compete at the state championships at Tivoli from 27th to 30th August.
Chase wasted little time making his mark on the competition.
In Peninsula’s opening game against Met West, he was named the team’s Most Valuable Player following an impressive performance that included stealing bases and executing double plays.
While his growing list of individual achievements is something to be proud of, what Chase particularly enjoys is being part of a team, experiencing the camaraderie and meeting new people.
Now, Chase is continuing to train and develop across his chosen sports, with his sights set on an even bigger goal for the future: earning a sporting scholarship.

Works are now underway for the Ingham Tennis Courts. Photo source: Ingham Tennis Association
Work is now underway to give the Ingham Tennis Association’s facilities a major upgrade.
The works will see significant improvements across the club’s existing courts, including the rear courts being lifted, a retaining wall installed and new concrete laid, while the front courts will also receive new concrete.
All of the courts will receive new black fencing and be resurfaced as part of the works, giving the facility a major refresh and improving the playing areas for the local tennis community.
The project will also expand the club’s sporting opportunities, with six dedicated pickleball courts included in the new layout plan.
The pickleball court are planned to be positioned through the centre of the facility, with the arrangement also designed to provide spectator areas for tournaments.
Courts 1 and 2 will serve as the club’s show courts, with the largest possible rear, centre and side run-off areas incorporated into the design.
Courts 4 and 5 will have the minimum required side and centre run-off, while the rear courts will mirror the upper courts for their side and centre run-off areas, with the rear run-off kept to the minimum required.
The existing central lights prevent a seventh pickleball court from being added, so the area will instead be used as a social space.
The redevelopment will also include new drainage near the clubhouse, with tap locations incorporated into the plan to provide adequate water pressure for cleaning the rear and side courts.

There is also potential for a drinking fountain to be installed near the planned covered tables, adding another amenity for players and spectators.
The Ingham Tennis Association has welcomed the start of the works, with courts 6 and 7 remaining available during construction so junior and adult players can continue to play while the redevelopment progresses.
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP also praised the upgrade.
“I’m pleased to see work underway to give the Ingham Tennis Association a much-needed facelift, supported by my election commitment and funding through the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant,” Mr Chiesa said.
The project will provide the Ingham Tennis Association with upgraded tennis facilities while also creating dedicated spaces for the growing sport of pickleball and improved areas for players, spectators and the wider club community.

Darcy Winter hefting up his huge Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied: Herb Winter
Darcy, that fish is almost taller than you! A MASSIVE mackerel to say the least, congratulation on a fantastic catch and what looks to be an awesome day on the water.
Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!