Community
16 September, 2026
Barra bash back at Tinaroo
LAKE Tinaroo is set to come alive with fishing action, $10,000 cash prize and a huge family foreshore celebration
LAKE Tinaroo is set to come alive with fishing action, $10,000 cash prize and a huge family foreshore celebration
The iconic Tinaroo Barra Bash will return to Lake Tinaroo from 25-27 September 2026, bringing anglers, families and visitors together for a weekend of fishing, entertainment and community celebration after last being held in 2023.
Hosted by the Tablelands Fish Stocking Society, the 2026 barra bash is expected to attract competitors and spectators from across the region, with a substantial cash prize pool and new live scope and non-live scope divisions reflecting the rapid advancement of fishing technology since the event was last held.
Society secretary Doug Luscombe said the community had been keen to see the iconic event return.
“There has been a real desire from the community to see the barra bash return and we’re incredibly excited to bring it back in 2026,” he said.
“The Tinaroo Barra Bash has become an iconic event for the Tablelands, bringing together serious anglers, families, local businesses and visitors from across the region. After two years away, we’re expecting a fantastic response.”
A major drawcard will be the return of the $10,000 lucky entry prize – and entrants don’t even have to fish to be in the running. Any adult competition entrant is eligible to win the $10,000 cash prize, provided they are present at the lucky entry draw at Sunday’s foreshore event.
“The $10,000 lucky entry is something that makes the barra bash a little bit different,” Mr Luscombe said.
“You don’t have to fish to have a chance of winning it. You just need to be an adult entrant and be there at the foreshore on Sunday when the draw takes place.”
The Sunday foreshore celebration kicks off at 8.30am and is expected to attract over 1000 people, offering a full day of family entertainment alongside the fishing action.
Special guest ‘Hodgie the Barefoot Fisherman’ will share his casting secrets and barramundi-whispering skills before hosting the kids casting competition.
Families can also enjoy face painting, outdoor arcade games, market stalls, food vendors, Lake Tinaroo cruises, live dancing and entertainment, special VIP appearances, red claw races and live fish displays, with more activities to be announced.
Mr Luscombe said the event would celebrate the return of an important community occasion while showcasing Lake Tinaroo and the Atherton Tablelands.
“After two years away, we want to make 2026 a celebration of everything that makes the Tablelands special – fishing, families, businesses and our community,” he said.
“Whether you’re competing on the water or coming along for the Sunday foreshore event, there will be something for everyone.”
Read More: Far North