Kings Beach Mullet Run celebrates its 105th year

A Sunshine Coast fishing event recently celebrated the start of its 105th instalment, with the licence holder defending its “fishing in bulk” approach.

A Sunshine Coast fishing event recently celebrated the start of its 105th instalment, with the event’s licence holder defending its reputation by stating it was both ethical and sustainable.

The Sunshine Coast Mullet Run was first co-ordinated and launched in 1917 at Kings Beach by the Clarke and Chaplin families.

The event’s main aim is to catch and export mullet in bulk to neighbouring countries, where it is considered a delicacy and even an aphrodisiac in some Asian localities.

Mark Chaplin, 68, hauling mullet at Kings Beach. Picture: Lachie Millard

Six local fishermen are taking part in the event this year, which will run for about eight to 10 weeks from the start of June and finish at either the end of July or start of August.

Licence holder Michael Thompson said it was hard to determine how much mullet they had caught this year to date, however, he was hopeful of a large haul.

“We literally use every single bit of the mullet and make sure what can be sold of the fish is sold either locally or overseas,” Mr Thompson said.

River Donaldson, 12, helps out with the mullet haul at Kings Beach. Picture: Lachie Millard

Mr Clarke said the event had copped criticism in the past for its “fishing in bulk” approach, however, he said the event was one of the most sustainable in the world.

“It’s been happening since 1917 and now Queensland Fisheries are trying to make it harder for us to do on a yearly basis,” he said.

“We are jumping through the hoops so far and we will continue on with the event because it is an age-old tradition which brings people together here.”