Overview

These Terms govern your use of the Bowen Fishing Classic website (bfc.fish) and participation in the Bowen Fishing Classic (the “Event”). By browsing the site, purchasing a ticket, or competing, you agree to these Terms, our Competition Rules, and all applicable Queensland and Commonwealth laws.

Eligibility

The competition is open to recreational anglers. Juniors are ages 5–15; Seniors are 16+. Family tickets cover 2 adults + 2 children (or equivalent as stated at purchase). Entrants under 18 must have permission from a parent or guardian and must be supervised at all times on the water and at weigh‑in.

Registration & Tickets

  • 1. Entry to the Event precinct is free; a valid competition ticket is required to weigh in a catch and to be eligible for fishing prizes.
  • 2. You may purchase a ticket solely to enter the major prize draw without fishing.
  • 3. Tickets are personal and non‑transferable; one ticket per competitor.
  • 4. Your ticket is confirmed after successful Stripe payment. A ticket number will be emailed to you.
  • 5. You’re responsible for providing accurate contact and address details at registration.

Safety & Conduct

Competitors must operate vessels responsibly and carry required safety gear. We strongly recommend logging on/off with VMR 487 for offshore trips. Skippers are responsible for the safety of their crew. The consumption of alcohol or drugs that may impair judgment while boating or fishing is strictly prohibited. The Committee may refuse entry or disqualify any person for unsafe or inappropriate conduct.

Competition Rules (Summary)

Full Competition Rules form part of these Terms and are available on the website and at the Weigh‑In area. Key points include: fish must be fresh, gutted and gilled; billfish, sharks, eels, rays and catfish are excluded; fish with mutilations are excluded; legal size and bag limits apply; shooting/harpooning/ lancing/netting are not permitted; a maximum of five (5) species per angler may be weighed (incl. crab); only the registered competitor may present fish for weigh‑in; nomination card must be lodged when weighing in; disputes must be lodged with Officials within 15 minutes of weigh‑in conclusion. The Committee may amend details (e.g., times/boundaries) as necessary.

Weigh‑In & Scoring

  • 1. Weigh‑in times and locations are published on the site and at the Event.
  • 2. Champion Angler points are based on species “factor” and highest weight per species (max five species per angler).
  • 3. In a points tie, the Weighmaster and Officials will determine the winner; decisions are final.
  • 4. The anal fin may be cut at weigh‑in for identification—do not pre‑mark fish in this way.

Prizes

Prize winners may be required to present ID and their ticket number. Transport of prizes is the sole responsibility of winners. The Committee reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if necessary. Major prize draws include all valid tickets as specified; you don’t need to be fishing to be eligible for the major draw (unless otherwise stated).

Refunds & Cancellations

All ticket sales are final except as required by law. The Event may be delayed, modified, or cancelled due to weather, safety, or other circumstances beyond our control. If the Event is cancelled in full, the Committee will communicate available remedies (which may include rescheduling or partial refunds at our discretion). No compensation is offered for changes to the entertainment program, schedules or categories.

Indemnity & Liability

Participation is at your own risk. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Bowen Fishing Classic, its Committee, volunteers, officials, sponsors and agents are not responsible for any loss, injury, damage or expense arising from your attendance or participation, whether due to negligence or otherwise. You agree to indemnify the organisers against claims arising from your actions or breach of these Terms or the Competition Rules.

Photos & Media

By attending and/or competing, you consent to the organisers and their partners capturing and using photography, video and audio of you for Event promotion, media and archival purposes without additional compensation. If you have concerns about image use, please contact us before the Event.

Payments

Online payments are processed securely via Stripe. We do not store full card details on our servers. You must ensure your billing information is accurate. If a charge is reversed or disputed, the organiser may cancel your ticket and related prize eligibility.

Privacy

We collect personal information (e.g., name, contact details, address) to register competitors, run the Event, issue tickets and prizes, ensure safety, and provide updates. We may share information with event partners strictly for Event operations. See our Privacy section for details and contact methods to access/correct your information.

Cookies

Our website may use cookies and analytics to improve functionality and measure engagement. You can control cookies in your browser settings; some features may not function without them.

Website Use & Links

Content on bfc.fish is provided in good faith for general information. We don’t guarantee completeness, accuracy, or availability at all times. External links are provided for convenience; we are not responsible for their content. You may link to public pages of this site in a fair and lawful manner that doesn’t imply endorsement.

Changes & Contact

We may update these Terms, Competition Rules, schedules or categories at any time. Material changes will be posted on the website and/or announced at the Event. For questions, contact the Committee via the details on our Contact page.

Last updated: 11 Aug 2025