The critically endangered Flathead Galaxias, affectionately known as the ‘Ghost Fish’, in the Molesworth billabongs and endangered Macquarie Perch in the Hollands Creek near Benalla are the focus of current efforts.
Goulburn Broken CMA is working closely with the Arthur Rylah Institute, Victorian Fisheries Authority, Taungurung Land and Waters, Parks Victoria and North Central CMA on the fish rescue work.
Goulburn Broken CMA Environmental Water and Wetlands Manager, Simon Casanelia said at Tatong, Hollands Creek had stopped flowing, meaning Macquarie Perch could not move throughout the waterway and were instead stranded in isolated, receding pools of water.
“Goulburn Broken CMA staff worked with Arthur Rylah Institute and Victorian Fisheries Authority staff to move 15 juvenile Macquarie Perch to a deeper upstream pool,” he said.
“Around 15 mature Macquarie Perch were moved to the Snobs Creek hatchery for safe keeping.
“These fish may be returned to Hollands Creek when conditions improve, or they may contribute to the breeding program which supports conservation stocking.”
Some River Blackfish were also moved upstream to a large pool.
A few Macquarie Perch and Trout Cod have also been moved from Seven Creeks to the hatchery.
“It’s been a great multi-agency effort to help secure these local populations of endangered native fish,” Mr Casanelia said.
“While it’s impossible to save all native fish and aquatic species impacted by the ongoing hot, dry conditions impacting the catchment’s rivers, creeks and wetlands, it’s so valuable we can take these actions.”
Mr Casanelia said the effects of long spells of hot dry weather were being felt most in unregulated streams – waterways without weirs and dams that rely on rain and natural run-off for flows.
“This is a fantastic example of the community and local authorities working together to protect native fish in challenging, dry conditions,” he said.
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