THIS summer, Cooper Wealleans has discovered the perfect blend of fun and excitement.
Whether cycling to the foreshore, fishing on the picturesque North Stradbroke Island, or spending time with friends who share his love for the great outdoors.
For Cooper, 11, nothing beats the rush of landing a fish, making this holiday one to remember.
Cooper’s mother, Christie Barrett, said she encouraged the pursuit as a healthy outdoor activity, especially as it did not involve a screen.
“He is outdoors, and they are having fun,” Mrs Barrett said.
“There is also the cool side of it. Cooper and his friends like to watch YouTube videos about jet-ski fishing.”
Cooper said he and his friends, known as the Mad Mahi’s, posted about popular fishing moments on TikTok.
“It might be about a fish we are trying to catch, setting up for the day, or no real reason at all,” Cooper said.
“I got into fishing because my friends were doing it. I fish with my friends, but I also go by myself.
“It’s pure excitement, especially if you catch that big one.”
Cooper said his personal best was a 46cm flathead, caught on Moreton Island.
“Sometimes you don’t even know you have a fish on the line,” he said.
“You might bring in a small flathead.
“You either throw it back or use it as live bait.
“But if it’s a big fish, you always know.”
And like all good fishermen, Cooper said he always enjoyed eating his catch.
“If there’s not enough for the family, I’m the only one who gets to eat them,” he joked.
Mrs Barrett said Cooper had caught the family a few meals, and they always knew where he was.
“It’s quite safe. We use a GPS tracker on his phone, so we know where he is always,” she said.
“Cooper will plan his fishing the night before.
“He gets his fishing gear ready, and his snacks sorted.
“Cooper loves all aspects of it. I hope he enjoys this all his life.”
