The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has undertaken woody habitat reintroduction works on Tullaroop Creek in an effort to improve the habitat and breeding conditions for the River Blackfish (Gadopsis marmoratus), a species of regional significance.  

North Central CMA project manager, Jon Leevers explains, “The habitat reinstatement project is delivered through the Loddon Stressed River project. 

“River Blackfish, which were once widespread throughout the Loddon River system, have diminished significantly over time and populations are now found in only a small number of waterways in the catchment.

“The Arthur Rylah Institute, a biodiversity research base for the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) in Victoria, conducted a study which surveyed River Blackfish within Tullaroop Creek.  From this study we know the creek does support populations of River Blackfish. 

“The North Central CMA has undertaken a number of activities to increase the viability of these populations, which included fencing and revegetation to improve waterway health along with the reintroduction of suitable timber to provide habitat and promote breeding of this regionally significant species.”

Mr Leevers said the completed works are also supported by the delivery of environmental flows in Tullaroop Creek which is aimed at further supporting River Blackfish populations.  “Flows provide water to the creek which stimulates plant growth and maintains instream health, suitable food and habitat conditions required for River Blackfish.” 

“Following on from the recent works, we will be attaching a number of artificial spawning tubes to the reintroduced timber to create additional breeding habitat.”

The Loddon Stressed River project is a large scale river health project jointly delivered by the North Central CMA and the Department of Primary Industries; working in conjunction with landholders along the Loddon River between Cairn Curran and the Murray River.

In recent years the project has protected over 290km of river through fencing and revegetation, undertaken willow management, controlled bank erosion and improved habitat conditions for native fish. Funding for the project is provided by the Victorian Government‘s Large Scale River Restoration program.

For further information, contact the North Central CMA on 5448 7124.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au