One of the biggest fishing catchment areas in Australia set to be prioritised
OzFish Australia’s fastest-growing fishing conservation charity is now ready to protect and restore fish habitats in one of the biggest catchment areas for fishing in Australia, with its newly announced Clarence River Chapter.
The Clarence is the biggest coastal river system in NSW with a waterway that stretches over a staggering 250 kilometers and has a catchment area of approximately 22,700 square kilometers.
The OzFish Clarence River Chapter will create a platform for keen recreational fishers and community members to work together on habitat restoration projects that benefit native fish.
OzFish are fortunate to have the services of a passionate team of recreational fishers who are excited to give back to their local waterway.
Peter Pryor, an avid local angler and President of the new chapter, says that the Clarence River catchment has provided anglers with amazing fishing opportunities for decades, and now it’s time that the fishery receives some support of its own.
“The Clarence is a fantastic fishery, but parts of it have been decimated by bushfires and floods in recent years. As anglers who spend hours on enjoying what the river offers, it’s great to be able to help giving something back,” said Peter.
This new Chapter’s overall focus is not just the Clarence. Instead, they plan to rejuvenate the entire catchment system which encompasses everywhere from Wooli to Esk and all the way to Nymboida.
The Chapters first event will be to clean up the Clarence River Estuary Reserve, which will allow volunteers a chance to connect with like-minded people and rid the waters of rubbish that has been washed into the system.
The event will also coincide with Costcare Week, which encourages the community to understand the effects of litter on our waterways.
OzFish is calling on recreational fishing and volunteers to attend the family friendly event, which will be held on the Sunday 12 December and will run from 10am to 1pm.
If this sounds like something you would be interested in, head over to ozfish.org.au and register your attendance.
The need for more habitat restoration for our freshwater native species is critical. An OzFish Chapter in the region is a vital step for recreational fishers and community partners to continue working towards a healthy, vibrant and more productive fishery.
If you would like to know more about the Chapter or start one in your local area, then become a member of OzFish or contact 1800 431 308.
The new OzFish Chapter has been assisted by the Growing River Stewardship program made possible by the New South Wales Government through its Environment Trust.