Community & Business
16 September, 2026
Barra Bash returns
LAKE Tinaroo is set to come alive with a whole lot of fishing action, a $10,000 cash prize, and a huge family foreshore celebration when the iconic Barra Bash returns after a two-year hiatus.
LAKE Tinaroo is set to come alive with a whole lot of fishing action, a $10,000 cash prize, and a huge family foreshore celebration when the iconic Barra Bash returns after a two-year hiatus.
The iconic Tableland Hardware Tinaroo Barra Bash is returning at the end of this month, bringing anglers, families, and visitors together for a weekend of fishing and entertainment, after last being held in 2023.
Hosted by the Tablelands Fish Stocking Society and sponsored by Tableland Hardware, the 2026 Barra Bash is expected to attract competitors and spectators from across the region, with a substantial cash prize and new live-scope and non-live-scope divisions reflecting the rapid advancement of fishing technology since the event was last held.
Tablelands Fish Stocking Society secretary Doug Luscombe said the community had been keen to see the iconic event return.
“There has been a real desire from the community to see the Barra Bash return, and we’re incredibly excited to be bringing it back this year,” he said.
“It’s become an iconic event for the Tablelands, bringing together serious anglers, families, local businesses and visitors from across the region. After two years away, we’re expecting a fantastic response.”
A major drawcard will be the return of the $10,000 Lucky Entry prize – and entrants don’t even have to fish to be in the running. Any adult competition entrant is eligible to win the $10,000 cash prize, provided they are present for the draw at Sunday’s foreshore event.
“The $10,000 Lucky Entry is something that makes the Barra Bash a little bit different,” Mr Luscombe said.
“You don’t have to fish to have a chance of winning it. You just need to be an adult entrant and be there at the foreshore on Sunday when the draw takes place.”
The Sunday foreshore celebration kicks off at 8.30am and is expected to attract over 1,000 people, offering a full day of family entertainment alongside the fishing action.
Special guest Hodgie the Barefoot Fisherman will share his casting secrets and barramundi whispering skills before hosting the Kids Casting Competition.
Families can also enjoy face painting, outdoor arcade games, market stalls, food vendors, Lake Tinaroo cruises, live dancing and entertainment, special VIP appearances, red claw races and live fish displays, with even more activities to be announced.
Mr Luscombe said the event would celebrate the return of an important community occasion while showcasing Tinaroo and the Tablelands.
“After two years away, we want to make this year a celebration of everything that makes the Tablelands special – fishing, families, businesses, and our community,” he said.
“Whether you’re competing on the water or coming along for the Sunday foreshore event, there will be something for everyone.”
The 2026 Barra Bash will be held from 6pm 25 September to 8.30am 27 September. For more information, visit www.tinaroobarrabash.com.au
