A MEMORIAL fishing competition and community weekend has been organised to honour the memory of much-loved local Peter ‘Russell’ Collins, one year after his sudden passing.
All proceeds from the weekend will be donated to men’s health charities Beyond Blue and the Black Dog Institute.
The event begins at 12pm on Friday, 19 September at North Haven Boat Ramp, where competitors will head out for the start of the fishing competition.
The competition, which has attracted more than 190 entries, includes divisions for Beach, Shore, Boat, Inside, and Outside.
Making a special appearance will be Dan Repacholi, a four-time Olympian, triple Commonwealth Games gold medalist in shooting, and the current Federal Member for Hunter.
That evening the celebration continues at the Laurieton Hotel, with competitors gathering for a meal and to share stories of Pete.
On Saturday, 20 September, the weigh-in and judging will take place from 2pm at the Laurieton Hotel, followed by a charity auction commencing at 6:30pm.
More than $6,000 in prizes will be offered at auction, with prizes including framed and autographed NRL jerseys, a fishing trip for two to Cape York, and race boots autographed by jockey Tommy Berry.
The boots were worn when Berry rode the legendary Chautauqua to win the TJ Smith Stakes for the third time.
Organisers stress the weekend is about much more than fishing.
“It is about community, mateship, and celebrating Pete’s life in a way he would have loved – with laughter, a few beers, and plenty of stories shared,” a statement from the organisers said.
“Peter ‘Russell’ Collins, known simply as Pete to most, lived a life full of friendship, laughter, and loyalty.
“From his earliest days at kindergarten through to school carnivals, a shared love of cars and Harley Davidsons, family camping trips, holidays, and farming, Pete created bonds that were more like family than friendship.
“To many, he was a second father, a guiding figure, and a mate who was always there.”
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