General News
15 April, 2026
Put on ice
ONE of north Queensland’s biggest recreational fishing events – the Kurrimine Classic – has been cancelled this year, with organisers saying construction of a new boat ramp and car park at Kurrimine Beach was a main factor in the decision.
Usually held on the first weekend of the September school holidays, the annual meet has attracted up to 1000 registered entrants in recent years, with around 1500 fishers, family members and other visitors gathering per day over the three-day weekend event.
It is also famous for massive giveaways, often featuring a high-value boat package as top prize, and a $25,000 cash super draw for adults and thousands of dollars in prizes for juniors.
The Kurrimine Beach Fishing Club – which organises the event – announced the cancellation in an email to its members and a comprehensive social media post spelling out reasons why the 2026 couldn’t go ahead.
Newly-elected president Cindy Bogan said in the post that after careful consideration, a “pause” in this year’s event was necessary.
“This decision has not been made lightly,” she wrote.
“The Kurrimine Classic is a highly-valued event on our calendar and one that has been built over many years through the dedication of committed volunteers, generous sponsors, hardworking committee members and strong community support.”
Ms Bogan said there were many reasons.
She said a number of factors contributed to the decision, including the building of the suburb’s new state government-funded $3.5 million boat ramp and adjoining extended car and boat trailer parking area to be built by Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“Firstly, the new boat ramp construction, and the need to factor in any possible delays or impacts surrounding access, logistics and event planning, has created a level of uncertainty that cannot be ignored,” she said.
“While this project is an exciting step forward for our region and something that will no doubt benefit our local boating and fishing community well into the future, it is important that the club acts responsibly in the planning of any major event during this period.
“At this stage, with variables still in play, it would be premature to commit to the scale of planning required for a Kurrimine Classic.
“That said, we are genuinely looking forward to seeing the progress of the new boat ramp and the long-term opportunities it will bring to Kurrimine Beach.
“The club will continue to follow updates as they are provided through council and the relevant steering committee and we will keep our members and community informed as further information becomes available.”
The fishing club president also said that this year’s cancellation would also give the club a chance to focus on the local community.
“Since 1999, this community has supported the Kurrimine Beach Fishing Club and it is important that we now place strong emphasis on giving back into the very backyard that has stood behind this club for so many years.”
“Thirdly, there is a clear desire to take things back to a more community-based grass roots focus, with an emphasis on education for our younger generation,” Ms Bogan said. “This includes building greater knowledge around sustainable fishing practices, respect for our local environment, and encouraging young people to understand the value of contributing positively to the community they live in.”
Read More: Kurrimine Beach