Lindenow South Primary School students rolled up their sleeves, donned their gloves and planted plants for platypus along the banks of the Mitchell River.
The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has recently placed a series of instream wood structures in the Mitchell River near Wuk Wuk. These structures will provide many functions that aim to benefit platypus populations by providing food and shelter.
Funding for this project, provided by the Victorian Government, is to help highlight the conversation status of platypus in Victoria, particularly in locations likely to provide refuge for the species under a changing climate.
Prior to site selections, eDNA sampling was conducted to confirm the presence of platypus in this section of the Mitchell River.
“This was important to ensure that the habitat was being placed in a location where the species already exists.” Said Bec Hemming, East Gippsland CMA’s CEO
“The enhanced habitat will provide support for this existing population”.
The students from Lindenow South Primary School have been researching platypus, and there isn’t much they don’t know about the species they are helping to protect.
Following a presentation by Wildlife Unlimited to enhance their already strong knowledge of the species, sporting gumboots, they marched on down to the riverbanks to plant native plants just above the newly installed habitat structures.
Once this vegetation is established, it will complement the habitat structures by providing a whole range of benefits. Some of these benefits include reducing sediment runoff into the river, improving water quality, providing habitat for terrestrial animals, food for aquatic animals, and shade for the water, which helps control water temperature during the hotter months.
This hands-on educational experience for the students not only enriches their understanding of platypus but also ensures a safer and more inviting environment for one of nature’s unique creatures.
In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, local students recently planted over 700 native plants.
The cool and wet weather couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm Gippsland Grammar junior students had in completing their environmental project which forms part of a three year multi partner project along the lower Mitchell River.
Gippsland Grammar and partners Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), Bairnsdale Urban Landcare Group, Eastwood Landcare Group and the East Gippsland Shire Council contributed to many environmental activities throughout the life of this project.
These initiatives focussed on improving community access and assets, incorporating Traditional Owner values and priorities, improving habitat for native species and wetland restoration along the highly popular area of the Mitchell River from the Lind Bridge to the Highway Bridge.
“The hard work and commitment from not only this school but the community groups that work tirelessly to ensure our rivers remain healthy for generations to come is to be applauded.”, said East Gippsland Catchment Management’s CEO, Bec Hemming.
“The students will be able to keep a good eye on their work as the plants mature and grow, and they will be proud of their environmental contribution to their local area.”
These projects are funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment over four years (2020-24) into improving the health of waterways and catchments in regional Victoria.
Victorian and New South Wales agencies and community members have come together to talk about the Snowy River.
The Snowy Advisory Committee (SAC) along with representatives from the NSW and Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), Victorian Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action (DEECA), Snowy Hydro and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) visited the Snowy River at Marlo and Orbost to discuss environmental flows and the Snowy River Estuary.
“East Gippsland CMA has been working with NSW DCCEEW to incorporate flow recommendations that improve the condition of the lower Snowy River and estuary” said East Gippsland CMA Chief Executive Officer, Bec Hemming.
“These recommendations are about maintaining an open entrance during late summer and autumn, a time when historically the estuary has closed due to reduced catchment and environmental flows.”
The daily amount of water released from the Jindabyne dam is planned twelve months in advance by the NSW Government who take advice from the SAC and other organisations. As part of the 2024/2025 environmental water release plan, a trial will be conducted to monitor estuary mouth behaviour in response to varying volumes of environmental water releases over specific time intervals.
“This monitoring aims to assess the impact on both the entrance mouth condition and water quality in adjacent wetland and waterways during late summer and autumn of 2025.” Bec said.
As well as agencies coming together, a series of presentations to community members was held at the Marlo Angling Club. The presentations included topics such as the importance of environmental flows, planned water releases, fish health and the trial around the estuary mouth.
Community members expressed their strong connection to the river and desire to maintain an open entrance which has multiple benefits to them including reducing flooding impacts and avoiding impacts to native fish and other aquatic species.
To reiterate the importance of water releases at the right time for fish and estuary health, a canoe trip into Cabbage Tree Lagoon was made for a firsthand experience of a site which provides important fish populations.
The engagement was funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment into improving the health of waterways and catchments in regional Victoria.
On a perfect May morning, community members gathered along the banks of the Mitchell River for the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s (CMA) Mitchell River Community Paddle.
The sun was shining, warming participants as they prepared for the paddle along the lower Mitchell River. Participants of all ages donned life jackets, paddles in hand and set out on kayaks from the Picnic Point reserve to Howitt Park.
The event was organised to highlight the East Gippsland CMA and partners’ river health projects along all reaches of the river.
“Our rivers are lifelines for our communities, providing habitat for wildlife, recreational opportunities, and essential resources” said East Gippsland CMA CEO, Bec Hemming.
Ongoing work includes enhancing a targeted priority area along the Mitchell River floodplain, spanning from Glenaladale to Lind Bridge just upstream of Bairnsdale. Priority frontages along the lower Mitchell River have been identified for stock exclusion fencing initiatives. Weed control and revegetation efforts will also be carried out.
Over the past three years, a collaborative effort involving multiple partners has concentrated on enhancing and diversifying an area along the lower Mitchell River, from the Lind Bridge to the Highway Bridge.
The dedicated efforts of partners including Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), the Bairnsdale Urban Landcare Group, Eastwood Landcare Group, Gippsland Grammar Junior Campus and the East Gippsland Shire Council has seen improved species habitat, wetland restoration, weed control and improved community access to recreational and community assets.
“By working together, we can continue the work we do ensuring our rivers remain resilient for generations to come”, said Bec.
These projects are funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment into improving the health of waterways and catchments in regional Victoria.
The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) was thrilled to be part of the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival in Mallacoota last week.
The East Gippsland CMA was able to contribute to the festival’s activities by hosting a walk and talk, boat tours and a presence at the popular market in the township of Mallacoota.
On the first evening of the event, the East Gippsland CMA led the walk and talk session. Participants explored the bushland of the Casuarina Walk and coastal area of Davis Creek. Guided by East Gippsland CMA staff, who shared insights into the region’s unique flora and fauna, with a focus on bushfire recovery and the resilience of local ecosystems. Attendees learned about native plant regeneration, habitat restoration, and the vital role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance.
The following day, East Gippsland CMA hosted a boat tour on the Mallacoota Lake. Aboard the MV Loch Ard participants were treated to the beautiful scenery of Mallacoota from the water. The tour highlighted the importance of keeping our catchments healthy to protect the best in Far East Gippsland. An absolute highlight was seeing a pair of sea eagles circling above and being treated to watching one of them feeding off the water.
The market, showcasing local seafood and wares, was held with perfect weather for an outdoor activity. With many partner agencies and community groups set up together with Black Snake Productions and their array of native wildlife, market participants got to learn about wildlife of the local area and at the same time able to chat to agency staff and volunteers about their environmental initiatives.
The grand finale was a boat tour along the Wallagaraugh and Genoa rivers. Participants were enthralled by the diverse birdlife that call these waterways home. From graceful pelicans to vibrant kingfishers, fish-feeding cormorants, and soaring eagles, the experience was made even more exciting by the thrilling sight and distinctive sound of a glossy black cockatoo as it flew overhead.
“We are thrilled to be part of this community event,” said East Gippsland CMA’s CEO, Bec Hemming.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with local Mallacoota residents, the broader East Gippsland community and visitors from Victoria and NSW to highlight the great work undertaken by landholders, community members and agencies to preserve this precious far east region.”
Buchan Primary School students understand the vital role their local river plays, including supporting a diverse range of plants and animals including fish.
Recently, these students participated in releasing native Southern Pygmy Perch near the newly constructed Buchan fishway, contributing to the river’s ecological health.
As well as the important fish release, the students had the opportunity to witness firsthand how fish ecologists study fish living in the river. During a demonstration, and using specialist equipment, ecologist Jackson caught several species. Measurements and sizes of the fish were noted, as was their overall well-being before being returned to the river.
The numbers and diverse species of fish monitored highlighted the vibrant and healthy aquatic environment that exists in the Buchan River. Species found included Tupong, Common Galaxias, Australian Smelt, Longfinned Eel and the endangered Cox’s Gudgeon.
East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Chief Executive Officer, Bec Hemming said, “Finding an endangered species is very exciting, and the fact that it is utilising the fishway is highly encouraging. The ability to migrate from the estuarine reaches to the fresh water in the upper reaches is crucial for its survival.”
“Studying fish species and populations near the newly constructed fishway provides valuable insights into the types of fish successfully migrating upstream. Previously, this migration would have been more challenging due to the barrier caused by the log weir.”
As well as supporting native animals and plants the Buchan River supports many recreational activities and is a popular place for visitors. The area around the fishway is used by locals and visitors alike.
“We value the contribution by the community in maintaining the health of our waterways and seeing the kids learning and enjoying themselves in their backyard at the same time is fantastic.” Said Bec.
This project is funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment into improving the health of waterways and catchments in regional Victoria.
Vic Catchments, the peak body for Victoria’s ten Catchment Management Authorities, including East Gippsland, has won the Nature Positive category of the 35th National Banksia Sustainability Awards.
The Awards celebrate trailblazers in environmental and social sustainability, with winners across 14 categories spanning travel, agriculture, conservation and more announced at the gala event – all recognised as true champions of sustainability and social impact.
Cath Jenkins, Chair of Vic Catchments, accepted the award at the gala event held in Melbourne. “Vic Catchments is thrilled and humbled to be winners of this highly competitive category and congratulate all the other finalists,” said Ms Jenkins on behalf of Victoria’s ten Catchment Management Authorities (CMA).
“For over 25 years CMAs have been at the forefront of working with communities and partners to deliver incredible results for catchments across Victoria. It’s a delight that it’s been recognised by such a prestigious organisation.”
East Gippsland CMA CEO, Bec Hemming, emphasised the importance of partnerships stating, “Partnerships with Aboriginal groups, landholders, community and government play a vital role in improving waterway health into the future and the success of this work is shared.”
“Together we have achieved great outcomes for our natural environments, catchments, agricultural landscapes and communities in our 26 years, and we are only just getting started.”
Several environmental projects are complete, enhancing the Cann River’s ecosystems and improving the health of the floodplain.
Maintenance work has involved ongoing weed control, revegetation, and condition monitoring along the river. These efforts will ensure the continuation of good river health while also strengthening partnerships with the local community.
The Cann River Landcare Group has been tirelessly working on an area within the Cann River Caravan Park. Their efforts have transformed the river access into a great spot for locals and visitors. However, recent high rainfall events caused some erosion to the improved area. The group is now busy restoring the area, with their work nearing completion.
In addition to this, the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is undertaking maintenance work on a rock structure within the riverbed, just downstream of the Landcare Group’s site. This structure, crucial for managing riverbed stability is now back in action, providing the necessary support for native vegetation to establish naturally along the riverbanks.
Moogji Aboriginal Council have also been busy controlling weeds along many sections of the river as well as planting native plants in areas to increase plant diversity.
East Gippsland CMA CEO, Bec Hemming, emphasised the importance of these partnerships, stating, “Partnerships with Aboriginal groups, landholders and community play a vital role in improving waterway health into the future.”
Funding for these projects is part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment into improving the health of waterways and catchments in regional Victoria.
The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) recently hosted some environmental tours on the Wallagaraugh River, offering community members an opportunity to learn about waterway health in the Far East and the various projects the East Gippsland CMA is involved in.
The tours, aboard the Gypsy Princess, departed from the confluence of the Genoa and Wallagaraugh Rivers at Gipsy Point. Participants travelled upstream, passing private properties, and entering the lush, intact forested areas of the upper Wallagaraugh River.
Exceptional conditions allowed the community to reach the most upstream point of the Wallagaraugh River accessible by boat. Here, participants were treated to the sight of a lush rainforest where freshwater spills over a set of rapids.
Over the course of both days more than 25 species of birds were observed. Bryce Watts-Parker from the East Gippsland CMA provided insights into the local flora and fauna, bushfire recovery efforts, and the history of the area.
Great feedback was received from participants commenting that they thoroughly enjoyed their day out on the river.
Bec Hemming, CEO of the East Gippsland CMA said “We would like to thank all community members for their enthusiasm and interest in the boat tours.”
“The success of these tours underscores the importance of community engagement in preserving and understanding our precious waterways.”
Tours like this are made possible with Bushfire Recovery funds from the Victorian Government.
Locals were treated to an evening cruise on the Tambo River on a very warm evening to learn about river health.
Hosted by the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA), the time spent on the boat offered insights into current river health projects being undertaken along the river.
Throughout the cruise, people engaged in discussions, gaining firsthand knowledge from East Gippsland CMA staff about factors influencing river health, including the history of the river, current bank stabilisation work, and the value of fencing off the riverbanks and planting native vegetation to protect the banks from erosion.
As the boat ventured towards the mouth of the Tambo and Jones’ Bay, discussions turned to the Gippsland Lakes and the programs underway to improve the health of the Lakes.
“Bringing people together and closer to where the work is happening gives them a better understanding of what the CMA and partners are doing to improve the health of our waterways.” Said East Gippsland CMA’s CEO, Bec Hemming.
“Our staff are keen to talk to people in our community and answer any questions. These boat tours offer that face-to-face interaction, which we think is important in keeping people informed and hearing from the community about their own knowledge.”
The East Gippsland CMA and partners have undertaken many types of projects on the Tambo River, including installing fish habitats, fencing, weed control and bank stabilisation projects. Tours like this are made possible with Bushfire Recovery funds from the Victorian Government.
