Responding to Crisis: Murray Crayfish rescue and relocation

In the wake of severe flooding across the Southern Murray-Darling Basin during the summer of 2022/2023, a remarkable rescue mission unfolded.

An alliance of dedicated organisations and community volunteers came together to save vulnerable freshwater crayfish and native fish, whose survival was at risk due to the devastating impact of hypoxic blackwater events.

The hands and hearts behind the rescue

The operation was powered by collaboration, with OzFish joining forces with the Edward-Wakool Angling Association, the Joint Indigenous Group (JIG), Western Murray Land Improvement Group, NSW DPIRD Fisheries, and a network of passionate volunteers.

Despite harsh and unpredictable conditions, this committed team managed to rescue 775 freshwater crayfish and 47 native fish over two months. Their efforts ensured the safe return of these species to local waterways, marking a significant win for conservation and community pride.

Fighting for survival: why this rescue mattered

Flooding in the region caused hypoxic blackwater, a phenomenon where decomposing organic material strips oxygen from the water. This lack of oxygen forced Murray crayfish, including mature females with eggs, to abandon their aquatic homes in search of air, leaving them highly vulnerable.

The rescue effort not only saved individual animals but also aimed to protect the long-term stability and growth of local crayfish populations, ensuring a stronger, healthier aquatic ecosystem for the future.

Science, celebration, and community connection

Beyond the rescue, the project provided an opportunity for scientists and freshwater ecologists to study the ideal conditions for the safe reintroduction of crayfish.

Five community release events held in Swan Hill, Barham, Moulamein, Nyah, and Tooleybuc allowed locals to participate firsthand in the conservation process, turning rescue into celebration. This hands-on experience fostered a deeper sense of environmental stewardship and showcased what’s possible when communities and conservationists work side by side.

This project is in collaboration with the Edward-Wakool Angling Association, the Joint Indigenous Group (JIG), Western Murray Land Improvement Group and NSW DPI Fisheries with funding from the OzFish-Landcare NSW partnership, Australian Government through the CRC Program and BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.