A native fish forum and a construction site tour are two of the flagship events planned for the Cohuna area as part of Gunbower Island Week commencing Monday 18 March.

The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA), in partnership with Gannawarra Shire, has put together a diverse program to celebrate the unique values of Gunbower Island. 

Damian Wells, CEO, North Central CMA, said the week-long program of events provide many opportunities for the community to learn more about the environmental, social, economic and cultural values of the Island.  

“We are keen for the community to join in the celebrations and to share their knowledge and experiences of the local area.  Many organisations and community groups work together with the North Central CMA to ensure that the vibrant health of this unique landscape and internationally valued wetland continues to flourish for future generations 

“The week of events kicks off on Monday 18 March with a ‘History of Gunbower Forest’ session at the Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre, Cohuna from 11 am to 1 pm.

“On Tuesday 19 March people can join a farm walk on the Wight’s Cohuna dairying property commencing at 12 noon. Participants will be able to see first hand a pipe and riser system upgrade as part of Goulburn-Murray Water’s Irrigation Modernisation project.

“Wednesday and Thursday is all about the kids. We have two days of activities for local primary and secondary school students to learn more about the Gunbower Forest in a fun and educational way.

“On Friday 22 March we are holding the 2013 Annual Water Science Forum with a focus on native fish in the Cohuna Memorial Hall, 23 - 25 King Edward St, Cohuna from 10.00am.  

“We have secured four expert speakers who will provide attendees with a fascinating insight into the science of native fish behaviour, their life cycles, monitoring and pit tagging, identifying native fish and how they responded to a recent blackwater event in the Edward Wakool system.

The week concludes on Saturday 23 March with two tours departing from the Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre, Cohuna at 10.15 am and 1.15 pm. The tour groups will travel to the Hipwell Road construction site to see the works underway and to hear from staff about how the works will benefit Gunbower Forest,” said Mr Wells.

RSVP for all Gunbower Island Week events to info@nccma.vic.gov.au  by Thursday 14 March for catering purposes.

Gunbower Island Week is being run in partnership with Parks Victoria, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Goulburn-Murray Water, Department of Sustainability and Environment and Youth Affairs Council of Victoria Inc.

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