OzFish unveils fulltime habitat restoration bus for the Murray

Wetlands, rivers and billabongs of the Mallee region will now have a fulltime River Repair Bus tending to the local waterways thanks to fishing conservation charity OzFish officially unveiling the bus to the community today.   

The OzFish River Repair Bus is set to commence work 5 days a week, 52 weeks a year undertaking habitat restoration work which will include rubbish and weed removal, revegetation and improve instream habitat of local waterways.  

The converted 12-seater bus and heavy-duty trailer is a first for the Sunraysia region based off a successful concept in Dubbo, Western NSW. It will additionally provide 35 unemployed locals an opportunity to gain unique skills and experience in environmental management and prepare them for future employment. 

The bus will be managed by OzFish thanks to having successfully received funding from the Federal Government 2020 Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Grant and BCF and will remain with the community for the next three years.  

OzFish Project Manager for the Murray Darling Basin, Braeden Lampard, says that “the OzFish River Repair Bus is a huge coup for the region and will help enhance habitat projects on the Murray River and associated wetlands bringing social, economic, cultural and environmental benefits to the community,” 

“The bus is not just for fish – it will strengthen biodiversity creating healthy ecosystems which will consequently strengthen our community by supporting the local economy, tourism and employment. 

“As a volunteer-based organisation people have always been our strength. This bus takes that to the next level and will do a lot of the groundwork that volunteers cannot do regularly, like weeding and rubbish removal,” said Braeden. 

Over the next three years the bus will focus on all waterways from Robinvale to Lake Cullulleraine with an aim to plant native vegetation along the riverbanks, collect tons of illegally dumped rubbish, mange serious weed infestations and help enhance habitat.  

OzFish Chief Executive Officer and Founder Craig Copeland said, “Our first OzFish River Repair Bus has kicked significant goals in Dubbo, and we can’t wait to repeat them in the Sunraysia region.” 

“A healthy river makes for better fishing, and with the local volunteers being as keen as they are on catching the iconic murray cod or golden perch, the River Repair Bus in going to be a real asset to the community,” said Craig.  

If you would like to know more about the project or get involved become a member of your local OzFish chapter or contact 1800 431 308.  

The Sunraysia River Repair Bus is also supported by BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.