…official says area to be developed into eco-tourism spot
Despite the inclement weather, the eighth Rockstone Fish Festival was deemed a success as thousands of participants from all across the country flocked the event which was held on Sunday at Rockstone, the small fishing community 18 miles from Linden, Region 10.
This year’s event saw new and improved activities such as camping, bird-watching, a fish clay modelling competition and tours of the Essequibo. Other activities included fish catching and deboning, cooking and watermelon eating competitions.
Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Senior Administrative Officer Kemie Williams stated that the event has been successful over the years, and since its initiation in 2006, the Tourism Ministry and the tourism authority have been associated with it.
Rockstone Tourism Association President Lynette Benn expressed satisfaction with the support the event has received from the members of the association and community, the Tourism Ministry and other stakeholders. Benn said despite some challenges, there were improvements in this year’s event in terms of participation in the different competitions and other activities. She added that the association will be looking to develop the riverfront into an eco-tour destination, by installing proper seating and benabs, having more boats on site, and including more activities in order to make next year’s event bigger and better.
Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon said the event has always been one to look forward to, along with the annual Linden Town Week, and pointed out that the regional administration was satisfied with the support in terms of participation the event has been receiving over the years.
He encouraged continuous support from the business community and other stakeholders, such as government in order to ensure that communities like Rockstone demonstrate their uniqueness.
Rockstone is quite exceptional in that it has excellent fishing grounds, a rich population of birds, and is home to giant otters, howler monkeys, labbas, iguanas, bush hogs and black caimans. Solomon added that the level of support seen from the different stakeholders provides a good opportunity for Rockstone to highlight its unique natural assets, and encourage economic activities.
“The event has evolved from just an opportunity to catch fish and has now emerged to an opportunity to relax, sightsee and … socialise, allowing for a more family-oriented event,” he said.
Prizes were given out for the largest Lukanani, Arapaima and Arawana fish caught, and the largest fish overall, among others. There were also cultural performances in the form of dances and songs from the Linden cultural group and local artistes including Brandon Harding, Dianna Chapman, and Genesis.
The Rockstone Fish Festival is a signature event on GTA’s annual calendar of activities, and is aimed at promoting community-based tourism, generating income and economic opportunities for the community, while showcasing the rich culture of the people.
