New life in the Barwon River

THE federal government’s Fisheries Habitat Restoration Program is set to breathe new life into the Barwon River with the creation of a native fish habitat.

Under the restoration projects, the Barwon River will receive snaps or ‘fish hotels’ to improve the riverine habitat for native fish species such as the black bream.

The fish hotels – as referred to by recreational fishers – will provide further accommodation for threatened Australian grayling and other aquatic wildlife including frogs, water rats, insects and birds.

Delivered in partnership with the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA), OzFish Unlimited and VRFish, the project will also utilise the expertise of various community groups and organisations.

As well as taking place at The Barwon River, the project will be implemented at the Curdies River Estuary located in The Otways.

CCMA CEO John Riddiford said the project would improve the health of the waterways as well as provide essential ecological benefits.

“This project will deliver important outcomes for passionate recreational fishers because healthy habitat is vital to making fishing better and providing anglers with more fishing opportunities,” he said.

CCMA project officer Wayne McLaren said he was looking forward to partaking in the collaborative project.

“We are excited to work with OzFish and their army of recreational fishing volunteers to deliver these projects that will provide significant benefits for the Barwon River and Curdies Estuary,” he said.

“By restoring fish habitat, there will be an immense long-term benefit to recreational fishers through healthy, resilient and more productive fish stocks.”

Along with fishing, the Barwon River is a known hub for community sport and recreation including rowing, water-skiing and canoeing.