In its 81st Year, Gala weekend harks back to the humble beginnings of the club in 1936 and has taken various forms over the Years. 

Some events have included rowing and raft races from town to Spencer Park as well as carnival sideshows, chocolate wheels and even a billy cart race.

Organisers of this Year's event said Gala is a community event and promises to be a magnificent occasion.

 "Club members, local and visitors are all invited to fish over Saturday and Sunday morning,  January 7 and  8 to provide fresh fish for the auction," a club spokesman said.

"Entry forms are available at Merimbula Tackleworld and at the Club in Spencer Park on Fridays.  Registration is just $1 to cover the Paperwork”.

Briefing and last minute entries for fishing will be held at the club on Friday 6 January from 6.30pm. 

All fish caught over the two days are donated for sale in the club's Monster Fresh Fish Auction, with proceeds awarded to local causes.

The spokesman said there would be 33 prizes across a number of categories to reward the anglers and thanked the large number of businesses who donated and sponsored the event. 

“We’re very grateful for the generous sponsorship of this event which allows us to present so many prizes and so reward those that donate their fresh fish for the auction”, the spokesman said.

This year there is a bias to bags of Flathead which are very popular at the auction.  In this regard McKays Oysters have sponsored a $500 Tackle World voucher for the heaviest bag of Flathead – this cannot exceed 10 fish to meet DPI regulations.

A record turnout is anticipated at Spencer Park for the auction on Sunday and with the club boasting its new PA system, courtesy of the Southern Phone/ Bega Valley Shire Council grants scheme, will provide entertainment for visitors awaiting the auction and the drawing of the annual Kayak/Paddle Board raffle. 

This year the club has nominated both the Merimbula and the Pambula Rural Fire brigades for their tireless work during the year.   "Last year the Proceeds of the fish auction allowed the club to donate $2,500 to the Merimbula Rural Fire Brigade and this year the Club hopes to significantly increase this amount”.

The Brigades help run the barbecue and man the swap and sell stall and will will also have a fire engine on display to entertain the kids.

"The club is looking for a huge roll up of anglers to support the Monster Fresh Fish auction and look forward to its 81st Gala come the weekend Jan 7 and 8.”