Fishing and camping ‘never been better’
THE Goulburn River has benefited from a rare summer, which saw more natural flows than Inter-Valley Transfers (IVTs) in the waterway, according to peak Victorian recreational fishing body, VRFish.
“We regard the river as a jewel in the crown for Victoria’s native aquatic species, from Murray cod to critically endangered Trout cod and Murray Spiny crayfish” said VRFish chairman, Rob Loats. “From below Nagambie weir, through Shepparton to the Murray are one of the last refuges and breeding grounds for these incredible species.”
The best summer flows for the lower Goulburn are around 600-800 meg/day, which replicates natural summer flows, and provides ideal conditions for the survival of breeding fish and crays. While high IVTs and unseasonal water pulses hurt the Goulburn and waterways by degrading riverbank stability and vegetation, which also reduces access for fishing and other recreational or cultural activities.
This past summer, for the first time in a long time, the lower Goulburn saw some of the most natural flows with minimal IVTs meaning less damange from water pushing down the river. As a result, riparian vegetation has rebounded, native fish have responded to natural spawning cues, and fishing and camping has never been better.
“The Goulburn is a wonderful river. It is the heartbeat of the Goulburn Valley and draws fishers from across Victoria to chase iconic Murray cod. Let’s do all we can to look after it,” said Mr Loats.
