More than eighty people, including members of the local Loddon Vale Landcare Group, joined Victoria’s Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Peter Walsh, on Sunday 2 September to officially open a new fishing platform on Serpentine Creek at Durham Ox. 

President of the Loddon Vale Landcare group, Mr Laurie Maxted, said the new platform promotes recreational fishing opportunities and is a celebration of the social and environmental values of the creek. Construction of the all abilities fishing platform was funded by the Victorian Government using Recreational Fishing Licence fees.  

“In addition to the $17,902 grant provided to the Landcare group there has been significant local in-kind support to construct the fishing platform, erect fencing and build an information shelter at the site,” said Mr Maxted. 

Country and Western duo, Peter and Evelyn Sheehan, provided the entertainment for the event and performed a special song they had written about the Serpentine Creek. 

North Central Catchment Management Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Damian Wells, who was in attendance, said the North Central CMA was pleased to be able to support the project and the local Durham Ox community, particularly in recovering from the flooding experienced in 2011. 

“Whilst flooding is vital for the environment it can also have a severe impact on local communities, farms and townships. 

“The new fishing platform reminds the local community of the benefits provided by the natural environment and the pleasure that recreational fishing brings to both locals and visitors to the area, “Mr Wells said. The North Central CMA’s Loddon Stressed River project provided planning and technical support to Loddon Vale Landcare group and funded development of interpretive signage installed at the site.  

All anglers require a recreational fishing licence to fish in all Victorian waters, unless exempt. No more than two lines per person are permitted in inland waters. It is illegal to exceed catch size and bag limits that exist in Victoria to protect the future of recreational fishing. You can help ensure all Victorians have fish for the future by observing fishing regulations in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide and reporting those who break the rules - 13 FISH (13 3474).

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