Macintyre River Magic breaks ground in Goondiwindi

OzFish has officially kicked off the exciting Macintyre Magic project in Goondiwindi QLD, a two-year initiative aimed at revitalizing fish habitats along the beautiful Macintyre River. This project, officially launched with on-ground weed control last week, is set to transform the river’s ecosystem and assist the long-term sustainability of the fishery.

Why small fish matter

If you love fishing and care about our waterways, you already understand the importance of healthy fish populations. But did you know that without small-bodied fish like the Olive Perchlet thriving, we will not have viable fisheries of larger desirable species?

The Macintyre River was the only western river that had a population of Olive Perchlet detected in the last eDNA sampling of the Murray Darling basin. It is therefore imperative that we improve the parameters for the habitat of this endangered species and that is what OzFish is aiming to do.

That is why habitat restoration is key. By creating better environments for smaller fish, we strengthen the entire food chain, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy fishing in the Macintyre River.

Action on the ground

Work has already begun, with an initial focus on weed removal along a critical 1.5 km stretch of the river. OzFish’s River Repair Bus has been deployed to tackle invasive plant species such as morning glory, balloon vine, privet and tiger pear that choke out native vegetation and degrade fish habitats.

Before-and-after images and videos will capture the remarkable transformation, demonstrating the lasting impact of these efforts.

In addition to weed removal, 1,500 native indigenous plants will be planted to improve water quality and provide essential breeding and feeding grounds for native fish species.

Cultural burns and First Nations leadership

A significant component of the project involves working alongside the Bigambul Native Title Corporation and the Northern Gomeroi River Rangers to undertake a series of cultural burns on a 575-hectare lot bordering the Macintyre River.

These traditional land management practices will play a crucial role in restoring the riverbanks, removing invasive plant mass and promoting biodiversity.

OzFish Project Officer for the Northern Basin, Harry Davey, said:

“Working with First Nations knowledge on their country will be vital to the success of the project, from cultural burns to seed collection and plant propagation and river ranger’s advice on planning out the stages for a better outcome for the community and empowerment of our First Nations stewardship of their rivers.”

Community engagement: hands-on approach

OzFish is inviting the Goondiwindi community to take an active role in restoring the Macintyre River. Three hands-on workshops will be delivered to educate and involve locals in habitat improvement. By participating, the community will not only help rebuild fish habitats but also gain ownership of the restoration efforts, ensuring long-term commitment to protecting their local waterway.

“The Goondiwindi chapter of OzFish will now add a massive restoration project to their long successful event, the Goondiwindi cod classic, upskilling chapter members in citizen science and habitat issues leading the way for the younger members to be stewards of the river,” said Harry Davey.

Big fish, little fish, cardboard box

Whether you are a weekend angler or an enthusiastic conservationist, this project is about more than just fish. It is about a thriving, healthy river system. As the saying goes, “Big fish, little fish, cardboard box”, each part of the ecosystem plays a crucial role. Without small fish, we do not have big fish, and without habitat, we do not have fish at all.

Join us in making a difference. Follow the journey, get involved, and help ensure the Macintyre River remains a vibrant and productive waterway for generations to come.

What OzFish will deliver

• Remove 1.5 km of invasive plants along the Macintyre River.
• Plant 1,500 native indigenous plants to improve water quality and fish habitat.
• Conduct three community workshops to engage locals in habitat restoration.
• Partner with First Nations people to implement cultural burns over 575 hectares.
• Provide before-and-after evidence of lasting habitat improvements.
• First Nations knowledge to assist restoration of key habitat areas.

The project is part of the Community Sustainability Action grants partnership between OzFish and the Queensland Government . Funding for this project was provided with grants from the Community Sustainability Action Round 8 Conservation Outcomes of Water Ecosystems. Key contributors included the Queensland Government, Goondiwindi Regional Council, and BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.