The Bayer’s Big Fish Challenge is not your average fishing event.
It combines one of the nation’s favourite hobbies and invaluable support for rural men’s health.
Many local teams are taking up the challenge from Bolgart, Mukinbudin, Moora, Wongan Hills and Wyalkatchem.
They’re all vying for local honours, as well as the overall prize.
Partnering with The Fly program, the event also helps tackle the issue of the mental wellbeing of men in agriculture.
The Bayer AgSpirit Big Fish Challenge is donating a dollar amount for every centimetre of the largest fish caught and has committed a minimum of $20,000 to the The Fly Program charity, with 30 prizes also on offer.
The charity, a not-for-profit organisation, aims to create life changing experiences for Australian men who need some time to recharge and reset through outdoor experiences.
The winning teams will all have an opportunity to take part in a hands-on Fly Program experience.
Ben Thompson, National Key Account Manager at Bayer said many competitors have been touched by suicide in their communities.
“We wanted to show our support and it just seemed too distant to write a charity cheque for such an important issue,” Mr Thompson said.
“Not surprisingly, our agents jumped at the chance to catch fish whilst doing their bit for men’s mental wellbeing.
“As an avid fisherman myself, I understand how a few days stalking fish gets the primal juices flowing and at its core that’s what the ‘The Fly Program’ is all about – helping people feel more grounded and Local teams hooked on Bayer’s Big Fish Challenge alive.”
Matt Tripet, CEO of ‘The Fly Program’ said the charity are proud to partner with Bay for the Big Fish Challenge.
“It ties in perfectly with the design of The Fly Program, which is about enhancing men’s well-being by bringing them together in the great outdoors as active participants,” Mr Tripet said.
“Farmers are a tough breed but there are too many suicides in our rural communities.
“The Big Fish Challenge is a great way for Aussie blokes to simply get together and throw in a line in some inspirational locations.”