Australia’s richest fishing competition is back for another year – and will be bigger than ever with news a million dollars will definitely be given away during Season 9.
The Million Dollar Fish (MDF) competition gives fishos of all skill levels the chance to reel in cash prizes of up to a million dollars, simply by fishing the Northern Territory.
If they catch a barra sporting a red tag for the current season of MDF, they could win $10,000 or a million bucks.
A number of initiatives are planned to ensure a million-dollar fish is caught this time round.
To maintain the integrity of the competition, more details will be revealed as the season progresses, but the first initiative will be revealed in time for the start of Season 9 on 1 October 2023.
Over the years, hundreds of tagged barramundis have been released into the Top End’s five main fishing regions – Darwin, Katherine, Kakadu, Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands.
MDF boosts the Territory economy, with Season 8 generating a total expenditure stimulus of $70.8 million, 33.3 per cent ($23.6 million) of which was new money to the Top End region.
The research also revealed:
• MDF delivered 154,000 visitor nights across the NT.
• 57 per cent of participants purchased fishing equipment.
• 89 per cent of participants said they were likely to return next year.
Each time a $10,000 barra is caught, the lucky fisho can donate an additional $1,000 to a Million Dollar Fish Season 9 Official Charity Partner.
A further $10,000 will be donated to an Official Charity Partner when a Million Dollar Fish is reeled in.
Official Charity Partners are Cancer Council NT, Shoreline, Starlight Children’s Foundation Darwin Star Ball and for the first time, Riding for the Disabled Association Top End.
MDF is delivered by Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) and underwritten by SportsBet and runs from 1 October to 31 March each season.
Registration is free and opens tomorrow: [https://www.milliondollarfish.com.au]
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:
“We are determined to see the million dollars go off this year, putting Territory fishing on the national and international radar!
“Million Dollar Fish brings thousands of visitors to the Territory each year, to try and reel in a winner in some of the best fishing spots in Australia.
“Not only is MDF a massive boost to the Territory economy, it is a fun, family-friendly competition for Territorians and tourists alike.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby:
“The research shows how people all over the country have embraced Million Dollar Fish, with great results for our economy and Season 8 breaking records.
“There is no doubt Million Dollar Fish is the premier fishing competition in the country, if not the world.
“We can’t wait to welcome fishos back for Season 9, and we’re delighted to welcome Riding for the Disabled on board this year too.”
Quotes from NTMEC CEO Suzana Bishop:
“The Northern Territory is the ultimate fishing destination, and the best thing is, you don’t have to be an amazing angler or own piles of expensive gear or a boat to win with Million Dollar Fish.
“We’ve had people catch tagged barra with a handline while fishing from land, and while out on a fishing charter with local operators. One of our winners had never caught a barra before. This really is a competition for everyone.”
Quotes from SportsBet NT Operations and Partnerships Manager Thijs Bors:
“At SportsBet we are so excited about the fact someone will become a millionaire this season! This is absolutely massive for the competition and the Territory. Nowhere else on earth can you throw in a line and reel in a million bucks.
“There has never been a better time to fish the Territory. And remember, the more you get out on the water, the greater your chances. There are some great initiatives planned for Season 9, so register now and don’t miss out.”
Quotes from Riding for the Disabled President, Tania Lesneuck:
“We are excited to be coming on board as an official charity partner of Million Dollar Fish.
“Riding for the Disabled is a not-for-profit organisation that provides an avenue for people with a disability to participate in equestrian activities.
“We also provide safe, fun, and supportive volunteer opportunities for the community. We are looking forward to a seeing fishos reel in their red-tagged fish and hopefully selecting Riding for the Disabled as their charity of choice.”
Northern Territory Government
