Community & Business
19 November, 2025
Fishing comp giving back
THE third Ash Memorial Fishing Comp will be held this weekend, with proceeds from the event going towards a memorial fund to help local children.
The fishing competition was started in 2023 in honour of Ashley McDowall Holm, a young Tarzali local and “keen fisherman”, who was involved in a single vehicle accident in 2022. After three days in the ICU, the 19-year-old sadly passed away.
His mother, Megan McDowall, wanted to keep his name alive by fundraising and donating to the community through schooling and sporting events to alleviate financial burdens for parents.
Ms McDowall said the foundation, Ash Memorial INC., is in the final stage of being finalised and she’s looking forward to helping local children.
“I’m very excited that it is nearly off the ground, it’s been a long time coming,” she said.
“We only hope he is proud of what we’ve achieved in his name – the memories we are trying to keep alive, and the love that continues to grow from his legacy.
“I can’t wait for this year’s comp and to see the outcome of all our hard work again.”
The event is set to be a jam-packed weekend of fishing, family, and fun, with four competitive age categories, over 25 events, $500 cash for the first metre-plus barra caught, a treasure hunt boasting 50 prizes, and a glory shot competition.
The fishing comp will be held this weekend from Friday to Sunday, with home base at Cairns District Power Boat and Ski Club, Tinaburra Drive, Tinaburra.
Competitors can check in at the home base from 3pm Friday, with fishing set to kick off at 6pm that evening. The competition will run right through to 8am Sunday before the presentation at 10am that day.
Age groups range from; Adults (18+), Seniors (12-17), Juniors (7-11), and Littlies (0-6). Family discounts are also available by contacting ash.fishingcomp@gmail.com
To view nomination forms or for more information, visit https://ashmfoundation.wixsite.com/ashmfoundationinc
