10 September 2009

Reef Guardian students from Cranbrook State School will take the classroom outdoors tomorrow (11 September 2009) for their annual fishing classic.

Students, teachers, parents and members of the community will converge at Pallarenda Beach to take part in a fun day of fishing and learning.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian Schools Program Manager Megan Sperring said the event was a great way for kids to learn about using the Marine Park's natural resources wisely.

"Fishing is a popular activity in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and events like this fishing classic introduces students to best practice in the Marine Park like sustainable fishing methods," she said.

"Through the fishing activities the students also see the significance of the need for good water quality and clean beaches."

The Fishing Classic has become a school tradition that started with just two classes participating. The event has grown to where it is now attended by students' family and friends and is a very much anticipated event on the school's calendar.

Principal of Cranbrook State School Ray Armit said the students benefited from these events in many ways.

"Through hands-on activities the students are able to explore many different issues that affect the Reef," he said.

"It is also a time for Reef Guardian students to show their parents and the wider school community how they too can help look after the Reef."

The Cranbrook State School Fishing Classic is supported by NQ Dry Tropics and Oceanwatch.

The Reef Guardian Schools program is an education initiative of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority that encourages schools to commit to the protection and conservation of the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef.

Interview and photo/vision opportunity

When: 10am Friday 11 September 2009

Who: Cranbrook State School (Principal), GBRMPA, NQ Dry Tropics, Oceanwatch

What: Special appearance of Duey the Dugong, participants fishing and other beach activities

Where: Robinson Park/Three Mile Creek, Cape Pallarenda Road, Pallarenda Beach

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