OzFish Unlimited, First Nations, Murray Darling Wetland Working Group, Sunraysia Institute of Tafe and recreational anglers will be working together to restore critical habitats in the Sunraysia region thanks to a funding boost through the Australian Government’s Murray-Darling Healthy Rivers Program.
Importance of good foundations
Woody structures and rocky reefs are the foundations of healthy and diverse ecosystems within the Basin, however, over the past century many of these habitats have been removed through human activity, which has led to a severe decline in water quality and biodiversity.
The installation of woody and rocky habitat will improve structural connectivity of habitats for fish
The riparian fencing and planting of native vegetation will restore ecosystem function, with these actions providing significant benefits to nationally important native fish species listed under the Vic Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act.
Over 40 woody structures and 40 fish motels to be installed
OzFish Sunraysia Chapter and the River Repair Bus will be installing over 40 large woody habitats and 40 fish motels, planting thousands of native vegetation and installing a riparian fence in Wallpolla creek, Wallpolla horseshoe lagoon, Sandy creek and Potterwalkagee creek, which are located in Wallpolla and Mulcra Island.
Strength of community and conservation
The need for more habitat within the Murray Darling Basin is critical and this project is just another way OzFish and community partners are working towards a healthy, vibrant and more productive fishery.
This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Murray–Darling Healthy Rivers Program and the CRC program. The project is also supported by BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing, the local recreational angling community, Mallee Catchment Management Authority, Parks Victoria and First Peoples of Millewa Mallee Aboriginal Corporation.
