The Andrews Labor Government is boosting bushfire-affected native fish populations with a new conservation hatchery helping to safeguard Victoria’s vulnerable freshwater aquatic species.
Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio today announced 1.4 million towards a new hatchery at Snobs Creek – specifically designed to protect endangered freshwater species.
The hatchery will focus on increasing the population of freshwater species impacted by the 2019-20 bushfires, including Macquarie perch and several galaxiid species from Gippsland.
Planning is also underway for breeding other threatened species including the purple spotted gudgeon and South Gippsland spiny crayfish.
The new hatchery in north-eastern Victoria is a partnership with the Commonwealth Government, who contributed $960,000 to the project.
The hatchery will feature state-of-the-art equipment including new aquariums and recirculation systems.
The facility will allow scientists, Traditional Owners and industry to work together on breeding and release programs, community education and improving genetic diversity, giving these species the best chance to thrive.
These activities will help protect and enhance populations in response to extreme events, including fire and drought, as well as support broader river rehabilitation efforts.
The $2.8 million facility is expected to open in April 2023.
This initiative is part of the Andrews Labor Government’s ambitious plan to protect our state’s plants and animals, through Protecting Victoria’s Environment - Biodiversity 2037.
The commitment is backed by the state’s largest ever long-term investment into the environment, with nearly $560 million in funding provided since 2014.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio
“This new hatchery will help to safeguard our native aquatic species, particularly those left vulnerable after the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.”
“In the face of a changing climate and more extreme weather events, investments in projects like these are critical to build resilience in our unique wildlife - whether that be aquatic species, flora or fauna.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Fishing and Boating Sonya Kilkenny
“This hatchery is harnessing the shared knowledge of our best scientists, fisheries experts and Traditional Owners working together for an outcome to benefit all Victorians.”
Reviewed 12 August 2022