19 Apr 2018 Surf Coast Times, Surf Coast (General News) NAGAMBIE has hooked Australias biggest and most lucrative freshwater fishing festival for the next two years attracting new visitors and boosting local businesses in the Goulburn Valley. Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren joined Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes recently to announce GoFish Nagambie, which is expected to draw thousands of anglers and their families to the region. The two-year deal will see up to 5,000 competitors participate in a fishing competition, with over $500,000 worth of prizes on offer. The outdoor event will feature family friendly entertainment, educational programs and a unique opportunity to promote the regions local epicurean offerings and small businesses. GoFish Nagambie organisers expect the event will inject up to $30 million into the local economy over two years. The Andrews Labor Government helped secure the festival though the $20 million Regional Events Fund, which is helping communities like Nagambie attract major events that drive visitation. The Labor Governments fund has already supported over 130 local events showcasing Victorias regions to the world, creating jobs and boosting local economies. At the event, Minister Eren also launched the Goulburn River Valley Tourism Destination Management Plan, funded by a $25,000 grant from the Labor Governments Stronger Regional Communities Plan. The updated plan aims to attract new tourists by growing the regional visitor economy and promoting areas undergoing significant change, such as Nagambie, Seymour, Lake Eildon and Greater Shepparton. GoFish Nagambie will take place from April 25 28 2019 and again in 2020. For more information visit gofishnagambie.com.au. Mr Eren said Nagambie was one of the best places to cast a line in Victoria this festival will provide great exposure and attract thousands of visitors to the region. GoFish Nagambie will keep local restaurants, cafes and motels busy, and thats great news for local jobs, businesses and tourism operators, Mr Eren said. PHOTOS I would also like to remind everyone to keep those photos coming in of your big catch! Please forward them to mybigcatch@ bigpond.com, with type of fish, weight, length, location and your name. I am more than happy to place your photos in My Big Catch. Caption Text: Callum with a gummy shark he caught off Queenscliff.Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.