- International game fishing spotlight on Exmouth in March
- Tournament expands, with increased prize money
- Funding boost from State Govt, through Eventscorp's Regional Events Program
Exmouth and Western Australia's premier game fishing tournament, GAMEX, will be one of only five locations and tournaments across the world to participate in the 2012 Great Marlin Race.
Tourism Minister Kim Hames said WA's participation in the International Game Fishing Association's Great Marlin Race confirmed the growing international stature of Exmouth as a game fishing destination and GAMEX as a tournament.
"Exmouth is the only Australian and Indian Ocean location participating in the Great Marlin Race this year," Dr Hames said.
"It's a unique event which combines competitive fishing with scientific research, whereby the caught marlin are released with electronic satellite tags that are programmed to release after 120 days. The team that tags the marlin that travels the furthest wins."
As it did last year, GAMEX 2012 will be run alongside the Australian International Billfish Tournament.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the State Government had significantly boosted its support for GAMEX this year through Eventscorp's Regional Events Program, funded by Royalties for Regions.
"With a Royalties for Regions funding boost of $40million over four years committed to regional events, this is another example of the exciting and engaging events happening throughout the State," Mr Grylls said.
"GAMEX is a great event happening in an extraordinary regional location. Exmouth is home to some of the best and most accessible fishing grounds in Australia.
"While competitors are out on the water vying for this year's increased prize money, the tournament will also have much on offer for the rest of the community too.
"Exmouth will be abuzz during GAMEX, with plenty of onshore activities for locals and visitors to enjoy, including a fantastic community seafood barbecue."
Fact File
Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5300
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 5500
