Landholders along the Gunbower Creek are being encouraged to apply for incentives to increase agricultural productivity as well as protect the environment.   

The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is keen to work with landholders as part of its Native Fish Recovery Plan, which aims to increase the numbers of native fish in local waterways.   Project Manager Carl Gray said the incentives will contribute to fencing and off-stream watering and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, if landholders meet the criteria.     

“The NFRP plan outlines a larger program of works seeking to address threats to native fish in our rivers and creeks such as the iconic Murray cod,” he said.   

“The plan outlines activities that will restore river health and a productive fishery, which in turn will increase tourism to the region.   

“Fencing out creek and river frontages has benefits for both production and biodiversity. These include improving stock movement, reducing stock loss from bogging or drowning, decreasing erosion of the creek frontage and areas adjacent to irrigation, and improving water quality.   

“Native plant regeneration of these areas provides shelterbelt and habitat values, which is recognised as an important aspect of animal health and pasture production.   

“Participating landholders will enter into a works agreement with the North Central CMA to ensure works are maintained in a satisfactory condition for a minimum of 10 years.”  

Expressions of interest for the project are currently being sought; all Crown Land licensees along the Gunbower Creek and its lagoons will receive an expression of interest form by direct mail.  

However, all landholders with land adjacent to Gunbower Creek are encouraged to enquire. Landholders can contact Mr Gray on 03 5440 1832 or email carl.gray@nccma.vic.gov.au with their enquiries.  

The project is funded through Victorian Government’s Regional Riparian Works Initiative and managed by North Central CMA.

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