New weir keeps the fish moving

THE completion of a new tidal barrage weir and fishways on the Lower Barwon Wetlands will improve water management for the Geelong region and provide important access for significantly threatened migratory fish species.

The structure near Reedy Lake has been refurbished and now has three complementary fishways to enable migrating fish to pass through the weir, while the new cone fishway is the first of its type to be built on a coastal system in Victoria.

The weir’s construction has been a two-year project carried out by the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) in collaboration with Arthur Rylah Institute, Pensar Infrastructure and Australasian Fish Passage Services.

The Corangamite CMA says the project is essential for maintaining fishing and recreational opportunities in the Barwon River through Geelong for decades to come.

“The new lower Barwon barrage weir and fishways are a $2 million investment in waterway infrastructure in internationally significant wetlands near Geelong,” Corangamite CMA chief executive officer John Riddiford said.

“This critical infrastructure will help to maintain water levels in the Barwon River in Geelong and provide essential biodiversity and recreational benefits to local and regional communities.”

South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman opened the completed works last month on behalf of Acting Water Minister Richard Wynne.

“These works will have immediate and long-lasting benefits for fish, plants, birds and other wildlife in the wetlands and lower Barwon River,” Mr Cheeseman said.

“This is a world-class project and a first for Victoria in water infrastructure that will continue to support the environment and Geelong community.”