Mark Van Ryt, MIFSG Angler Education Coordinator said the funding came from the Department of Fisheries via Sunfish Queensland.

“We work in with the schools and do activities in the smaller Gulf communities every second year,” he said.

“Last Friday it was the turn of Julia Creek State School.”

Nineteen students had a enjoyable day of fun and fishing at Eastern Creek, the site of the swim leg for the Dirt and Dust Triathlon.

This activity gives the children an opportunity to learn how to tie a fishing rig - hook, line, sinker and float - attach a bait and cast a line off a reel under accredited instructors John Lane, Chad Hopkins, John Blackman and Mark Van Ryt.

“It was a hot day at Eastern Creek but we had a few breaks in the shade to cool off,” Mr Van Ryt said.

“Several species of fish were caught including sleepy cod and the inevitable catfish.”

A big thanks must go to Sharyn Currin teacher from the school who has participated in most of the previous five events at Julia Creek.

Thanks also to parents Mrs Abdy, Mrs Yeo, Mrs Crawford and Mr Verhoeven.