Native fish populations across East
Gippsland are set to benefit from a new funding boost, with the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) securing an additional $98,000 to expand its long-running fish habitat programs.
The funding, provided through the
Victorian Fisheries Authority’s Recreational Fishing Grants Program, will support further
installation of large timber habitat structures in regional waterways later in 2026. Potential sites include sections of the Mitchell, Tambo and Nicholson Rivers.
For more than two decades, the East Gippsland CMA has worked to improve fish habitat by installing large timber structures designed to replicate naturally fallen trees. These structures create complex shelter and improve habitat connectivity for native fish, contributing to healthier aquatic ecosystems across major river systems, estuaries and the Gippsland Lakes.
East Gippsland CMA chief executive
officer Bec Hemming said the approach had delivered proven results.
“The structures are designed to mimic natural fallen timber. Piles are driven into the riverbanks for support, with logs secured to create stable, long-lasting habitat,” she said.
“Monitoring of previous installations has shown fish and other aquatic species making extensive use of the structures.”
Ms Hemming said timber played a vital role in river health, providing shelter and food sources for fish and aquatic invertebrates, which in turn supported other species, including platypus.
The habitat works are part of a long-running collaborative program involving the
East Gippsland CMA, the Victorian Fisheries Authority, angling clubs, community groups and partner agencies.
Ms Hemming said the investment would benefit both the environment and the region’s strong recreational fishing sector.
“Recreational fishing is extremely popular in East Gippsland, and improving fish habitat not only supports healthier waterways but also helps sustain thriving fish populations for anglers to enjoy,” she said.
