The Ku-ring-gai Hornsby Angling & Casting Club is a renowned sports club located in Sydney, Australia. It was established in 1966 by a group of fishing enthusiasts who wanted to continue the valuable angling classes that were previously conducted at the Hornsby Evening College by Ern Melleuish. The club has a strong focus on weekly meetings, regular fishing and casting outings, and fostering a sense of community among its members.
In its early days, the club quickly grew to become the largest non-game fishing club in Australia within just 8 months. It was also the only fishing club in the country with women members endorsed by the Australian Fishing Clubs Association. Membership surged to 320 within the first year, with members from 63 suburbs of Sydney metro and even some from as far away as New Guinea.
The club still holds its weekly meetings every Wednesday night at Willow Park Hall on Edgeworth David Avenue in Hornsby, where the inaugural public meeting was held in April 1966. These meetings follow a consistent format, featuring an address from the president discussing previous outings, weigh-in details, and other important club updates.
The club's committee comprises dedicated individuals who contribute their time and expertise to ensure the smooth running of the club. Ian White, known as “The Oracle,” serves as the president and is not only a keen fisherman but also a historian of Bobbin Head and fishing techniques. Richard Seccombe, the secretary, brings his extensive networks within the fishing club world to enhance the connectivity and community aspect of the club. John Rule, a life member, represents the club at the NSFCA (New South Wales Fishing Clubs Association) and is recognised for his extraordinary fishing skills.
Alan Harvey, the club's treasurer, is a retired accountant and a passionate fisherman who has also served as the club's president in the past. Lance Jansen takes charge of social media and communications, ensuring that the club stays connected with its members and the wider angling community.
The club has its own unique logo, designed by Eric Hayes, which features the club colours of blue and white. While there have been some changes over the years, the club remains committed to its founding principles of regular meetings, fishing and casting outings, and fostering camaraderie among its members.
As a well-established and respected club, the Ku-ring-gai Hornsby Angling & Casting Club continues to draw fishing enthusiasts from Sydney and beyond. Whether you are a seasoned angler or someone new to the world of fishing, the club welcomes all who share a passion for the sport and a desire to connect with fellow anglers in a supportive and friendly environment.