A FISHING group that hosts lessons for disadvantaged and disabled children is hoping to reel in some sponsorship and donations to keep spreading the joy of fishing.
That’s The Thing About Fishing was established as a not-for-profit organisation about four years ago by Glenn Cooper and Brian Rowley.
The group gets by on raising money from sausage sizzles, generous donations from the public and occasional government and council grants.
Sponsors also donate bait, tackle and rods for children to use during group sessions held around Frankston and across the peninsula.
Most of the money raised by the group goes towards a van running across the peninsula region transporting fishing gear to fishing clinics.
Group treasurer Gary Bawden said That’s The Thing About Fishing’s main fundraiser this year is a gala ball to be held early next year.
Mr Bawden hopes wineries and breweries may donate some of their products for auction or as complimentary drinks for gala attendees.
“Any companies that want to donate goods would be appreciated. We are always looking for volunteers to help with the clinics,” he said.
“If you saw the excitement on the kids’ faces when they catch a fish you would volunteer or donate goods for this great cause.”
Mr Bawden said helping the fishing group had personally helped him at the same time as helping others, heeding That’s The Thing About Fishing’s motto to “change one life at a time”.
“It’s changed my life from being depressed and feeling sorry for myself because of my bad back and other health issues to feeling useful again.”
- Call Glenn Cooper on 0457 363 701 or email glenn@tttaf.org.au for more details about That’s The Thing About Fishing.
- Help for the gala ball fundraiser can be offered by emailing sbmacmillan@gmail.com