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Freshwater stocking in Queensland A position paper for use in the development of future ecologically sustainable management practices

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Freshwater stocking in Queensland A position paper for use in the development of future ecologically sustainable management practices

Aimee Moore, DPI&F, August 2007 PR07–2598

The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) seeks to maximise the economic potential of Queensland’s primary industries on a sustainable basis.

While every care has been taken in preparing this publication, the State of Queensland accepts no responsibility for decisions or actions taken as a result of any data, information, statement or advice, expressed or implied, contained in this report.

© The State of Queensland, Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries 2007.

Copyright protects this material. Except as permitted by the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth), reproduction by any means (photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise), making available online, electronic transmission or other publication of this material is prohibited without the prior written permission of the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Queensland.

Inquiries should be addressed to:

Intellectual Property and Commercialisation Unit Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries GPO Box 46 Brisbane Qld 4001 or [email protected] Tel: +61 7 3404 6999 Contents

List of tables vi List of maps vii List of appendices vii Acknowledgements viii Preface ix 1. Introduction 1 2. Translocations 2 3. History of fish stocking in Queensland 4 Historical stocking activities 4 Administrative arrangements 6 Queensland Fisheries Management Authority (QFMA) and Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) (1985–2001) 6 Queensland Fisheries Service (QFS) (2001–2003) 7 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) (2003–current) 7

Funding 7 4. Current stocking activity 9 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries 9 Staff 9 Facilitation of committees 9

Role of fish stocking groups 10 Objectives and programs 11 Conservation stocking 11 Enhancement stocking 12 Put, grow and take fisheries 12 Commercial fisheries enhancement 12 Fodder fish 12 Stocking of private waters 12 Stocking native fish for mosquito control 12

Stocking considerations 13 Stocked species and catchments 14 Australian bass (Macquaria novemaculeata) 14 Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) 16 Eel tailed catfish Tandanus( tandanus) 18 Golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) 20 cod (Maccullochella peelii mariensis) 22 Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii) 24 Northern saratoga (Scleropages jardini) 26 Redclaw crayfish Cherax( quadricarinatus) 26

iii Silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus) 28 Sleepy cod (Oxyeleotris lineolatus) 30 Snub nosed garfish (Arramphus sclerolepis) 32 Sooty grunter (Hephaestus fuliginosus) 32 Southern saratoga (Scleropages leichardti) 34 Catchments where stocking is restricted 36 5. Sources of fingerlings 38 Commercial hatcheries 38 Stocking group hatcheries 39 Externally funded hatcheries 39 Broodstock collection 39 Funding sources to buy fingerlings 40 Fish stocking program 40 Stock Impoundment Permit (SIP) Scheme 40 Commonwealth Recreational Fishing Community Grants Program 40 Stocking group fund raising 40 6. Management of freshwater fish stocking activities in Queensland 41 Legislation 41 Fisheries Act 1994 41 Fisheries Regulation 1995 42 Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999 42 Nature Conservation Regulation 1994 43

Policies 43 National Policy for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms 43 National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development 43 Translocation of fishes in Queensland 44 Protocol for stocking new freshwater rivers 44 Translocation of barramundi between management units 44 Stocking native fish for mosquito control in freshwaters 45 Guidelines for the carryover of SIP Scheme funds 45 SIP funding guidelines 45 SIP operational guidelines 45 Waiving and refunding prescribed fees 45

Administrative procedures (permits) 46 SIP Scheme 46 General fisheries permits 46 7. Monitoring of fish stocking programs 47 Recreational Fishing Information Services (RFISH) 47 Pre- and post-stocking surveys 47 Catch cards 47 Fishing competition data 48 Angler-based monitoring and tagging programs 48 Creel surveys 48 Long term monitoring program 48 Socio-economic analysis 48 Review of monitoring programs 48

iv Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 8. Current issues affecting management of fish stocking 49 Promotion of fish stocking and alternative funding sources 49 Maintenance of healthy fish stocks 49 Translocation of fish 49 Monitoring and evaluation of stocking 50 Adding species to the freshwater stocking program 50 Fingerling supply 50 Barriers to fish movement 51 Socio-economic analysis 52 Stocking rates 52 Size of fingerlings at stocking 53 Contingency plans for low water levels 53 Impacts on threatened or protected species 53 Impacts on threatened or protected habitats 54 Ecological impacts 54 Impacts on Indigenous communities 54 9. Conclusion 55 10. Aids to interpretation 56 Definitions 56 Acronyms 56 11. Bibliography 57 12. Appendices 59 Appendix A—Economically Sustainable Development (ESD) component trees 59 Appendix B—Translocations of native fish in Queensland 61 Appendix C—Fish stocking groups and waters stocked 66 Appendix D—Fingerling assessment form 69 Appendix E—Hatcheries registered with DPI&F 72

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland v List of tables

Table 1 Stocking programs in Queensland 1 Table 2 Introductions of exotic fish species in Queensland waters 3 Table 3 Historic stocking in Stanthorpe 4 Table 4 Fish stocking activities by DPI Walkamin 4 Table 5 General characteristics of Australian bass 14 Table 6 General characteristics of barramundi 16 Table 7 General characteristics of eel tailed catfish 18 Table 8 General characteristics of golden perch 20 Table 9 General characteristics of Mary River cod 22 Table 10 General characteristics of Murray cod 24 Table 11 General characteristics of northern saratoga 26 Table 12 General characteristics of redclaw 26 Table 13 General characteristics of silver perch 28 Table 14 General characteristics of sleepy cod 30 Table 15 General characteristics of snub nosed garfish 32 Table 16 General characteristics of sooty grunter 32 Table 17 General characteristics of southern saratoga 34 Table 18 Queensland catchments with restricted stocking 36 Table 19 Production schedule for fingerlings 38 Table 20 Size and possession limits for stocked species 42 Table 21 Fishing expenditure 48 Table 22 Known movements, habitat and range of species used for stocking 51

vi Freshwater Stocking in Queensland List of maps

Map 1: Location of on the SIP Scheme 8 Map 2: Stocking of Australian bass 15 Map 3: Stocking of barramundi 17 Map 4: Stocking of eel tailed catfish 19 Map 5: Stocking of golden perch 21 Map 6: Stocking of Mary River cod 23 Map 7: Stocking of Murray cod 25 Map 8: Stocking of redclaw 27 Map 9: Stocking of silver perch 29 Map 10: Stocking of sleepy cod 31 Map 11: Stocking of sooty grunter 33 Map 12: Stocking of southern saratoga 35 Map 13: Basins where translocations are not permitted 37

List of appendices

A Economically Sustainable Development (ESD) component trees 59 B Translocations of native fish in Queensland 60 C Fish stocking groups and waters stocked 65 D Fingerling assessment form 68 E Hatcheries registered with DPI&F 71

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland vii Acknowledgements

Dr Peter Jackson Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Ms Anita Wohlsen Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Dr John Russell Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Mr Malcolm Pearce Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Mr Terry Vallance Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Dr Michael Hutchison Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Mr Chris Lupton Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Mr Ian Yarroll Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Dr Jeff Johnson Queensland Museum Mr Mark Van Ryt Mt Isa Fish Stocking Group Inc Mr David Roberts Freshwater Management Advisory Committee Mr Alan Keates Freshwater Management Advisory Committee Mr Les Kowitz Freshwater Management Advisory Committee Dr Damien Burrows James Cook University Ms Nadia Engstram Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Ms Brooke Yang Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries

viii Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Preface

The purpose of this document is to provide an overview of all historic and current knowledge of freshwater fish stocking activities in Queensland. It identifies previous and current management measures, policies governing stocking activities, issues to be addressed and knowledge gaps. This document will be used as a basis for an Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) assessment to determine the impacts of freshwater fish stocking and allow more informed management decisions by DPI&F. For the purpose of this report, ESD is defined as using, conserving and enhancing the community’s fisheries resources and fish habitats so that: (a) the ecological processes on which life depends are maintained (b) the total quality of life, both now and in the future, can be improved.

The principles of ESD are listed in the Fisheries Act 1994 as: (a) enhancing individual and community wellbeing through economic development that safeguards the wellbeing of future generations (b) providing fairness within and between generations (c) protecting biological diversity, ecological processes and life-support systems (d) in making decisions, effectively integrating fairness and short- and long-term economic, environmental and social considerations (e) considering the global dimension of environmental impacts of actions and policies (f) considering the need to maintain and enhance competition, in an environmentally sound way (g) considering the need to develop a strong and diversified economy that can enhance the capacity for environmental protection (h) that decisions and actions should provide for broad community involvement on issues affecting them (i) the precautionary principle.

The precautionary principle strongly governs freshwater fish stocking activities in Queensland. The precautionary principle is defined in the Fisheries Act 1994 as the principle that if there is a serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of scientific certainty should not be used as a reason to postpone measures to prevent environmental degradation, or possible environmental degradation, because of the threat. The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) is responsible for the management, development, use and protection of fisheries resources and fish habitat in Queensland. DPI&F supports the stocking of fish into public and private waters for recreation, conservation and other purposes in accordance with the principles of ESD.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland ix

1. Introduction

More than 40 million fish have been stocked into dams, creeks and rivers throughout Queensland since 1986. Stocking activities in Queensland have evolved and expanded into sophisticated operations that focus on the use of native species to help meet the increasing demands on the state’s freshwater fisheries resources. Fish stocking is a useful fisheries management tool and can provide great environmental, social and economic benefits. There are seven categories of stocking programs in Queensland as listed in Table 1. Chapter 4 of this document describes the programs in further detail. It is important to realise that stocking fish is not necessarily the answer to declining wild fish stocks. Issues such as the need to understand why a particular species has declined, the appropriateness of other fisheries management measures, habitat rehabilitation, installation of fishways, genetic implications, risks and benefits of the proposed stocking need to be addressed before any stocking program is contemplated to ensure that resources are not wasted.

Table 1 Stocking programs in Queensland

Stocking type Program Conservation stocking Mary River cod recovery program Enhancement stocking Stocking barramundi into freshwater rivers of central and Fish stocking program Put, grow and take fisheries Fish stocking program SIP Scheme Commercial fisheries Not applicable, although some commercial fisheries (e.g. barramundi) benefit from stocking of rivers upstream Fodder fish Stocking impoundments with food fish (e.g. gar) for larger species Private waters Stocking privately owned waters (e.g. farm dams) Mosquito control Stocking native fish for mosquito control in freshwater

Fish stocking may cause changes to the natural, social and economic environments as illustrated in the ESD component trees (Appendix A). Such changes are little studied but include: • altered habitat interactions—water quality, displacement of aquatic vegetation • altered trophic interactions—predation, dietary overlap, competition for space • protected/other species interactions—habitat overlap, predation, competition • broodstock collection and release • disease • movement of biological matter • genetic diversity and hybridisation—reduction/loss of genetic diversity, loss of genetic strains • industry development—tourism, recreational fishing • employment—charter operators, bait and tackle shops, caravan parks, boating industry • investment—hatcheries and infrastructure • contribution to social values—fishing, food, voluntary activities • Indigenous community wellbeing—cultural values.

To ensure the success and benefits of stocking are not outweighed by damage to the receiving environment, a responsible approach has been adopted when developing, evaluating and managing fish stocking programs in Queensland. This has been reflected in several policies developed by DPI&F which are further described in Chapter 6.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 1 2. Translocations

Translocation means the introduction of fish or distinct genetic stocks of fish to areas outside their natural distribution. Translocations can occur: • between catchments—for example, moved from a waterbody in one catchment to another waterbody in an adjoining catchment • within catchments—for example, barriers (such as waterfalls) prevent the natural distribution of a species throughout a catchment and moving fish from below to above such barriers is considered a translocation • between genetic strains—a population or group of populations of a species that differ in their genetic makeup are usually separated geographically (e.g. golden perch) and it is considered a translocation if golden perch from the Murray-Darling strain are put into an area where the Lake Eyre strain occurs.

Problems associated with translocation include habitat alterations, trophic changes such as predation and alterations of food webs, changes to the spatial distribution of aquatic biota and disease. Irresponsibly managed translocations may also have genetic implications by reducing the fitness and resilience of the population. DPI&F recognise that translocations must be strictly controlled if irreversible damage to native fish communities is to be avoided. Unfortunately, several species of fish exotic to have been released into Queensland waters. If these species establish, the consequences for native fish can be severe. Carp (Cyprinus carpio), tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus, Tilapia mariae) and gambusia (Gambusia spp.) have all established large populations in some Queensland catchments. All of these species are highly fecund and quickly establish in waterways where they are introduced. This impacts on native species in the waterbody through competition for food and space and stress-related conditions due to the aggressive nature of the introduced species. Queensland has a pest fish strategy that provides guidance on enforcement, education and monitoring. Table 2 provides an indication of exotic fish that have been released into Queensland waters and indicates whether or not they have established. Since the implementation of the Recreational Fisheries Enhancement Program (RFEP) in 1986 (now referred to as the Fish Stocking Program), several translocations have been allowed to continue under legislative provisions. Translocations have created valuable recreational fisheries, provided fish for farm dams and assisted in the development of the aquaculture industry. Appendix B lists historical translocations of fish in Queensland waters. New translocations will only be considered if there is very good evidence that the risk to the receiving environment is minimal. Preference will also be given to species that do not reproduce in the new environment.

2 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Table 2 Introductions of exotic fish species in Queensland waters

Common name Area introduced Established Brown trout Lake Tinaroo No Spring Creek (near Killarney) No Rainbow trout Above falls on Piccaninny Creek No Tinaroo No Spring Creek (near Killarney) No Three spot gouramis Sheepstation Creek (near Ayr) Yes Red devil Aplins Weir () Unknown Oscar Aplins Weir (Townsville) Unknown Lagoon at Ingham botanical gardens Three spot cichlid (Gold Coast) Unknown Victoria Burtons haplochromine (Townsville) Unknown Mozambique mouthbrooder Waterways around Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville, Yes (tilapia) Herberton, , Black mangrove cichlid (tilapia) Waterways around Cairns and Innisfail, Tinaroo Dam Yes Oriental weatherloach Chambers Flat (Logan and Albert catchment) No Goldfish Brisbane, Burnett and Murray-Darling catchments Yes Carp Logan and Albert rivers, Murray-Darling tributaries Yes Gambusia Widespread through most catchments Yes Sailfin molly Coastal drainages of south-east Queensland, Yes Burrum and Brisbane rivers, Hervey Bay Guppy Coastal drainages Yes Swordtail Coastal drainages of south-east Queensland Yes Platy Coastal drainages of Queensland Yes

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 3 3. History of fish stocking in Queensland

Historical stocking activities

There is very little information available about historical (that is prior to 1980) stocking activities in Queensland. An interesting account of stocking history from south-west Queensland can be found in the records of the Stanthorpe Bluewater Fishing and Restocking Club Inc as follows:

At the turn of the 1900s the only fish above the Severn River Falls (Nundubbamere Falls) were the river blackfish found in the upper reaches of Quart Pot Creek, Bald Rock Creek and Accommodation Creek. In 1925 a group of people formed the Ballandean Angling Club and approached the local shire council and state government bodies to enlist their help in beginning to stock the river system with fish indigenous to the . The Stanthorpe Shire Council gave a grant of 50 pounds ($100) to the club for travelling expenses and the state government closed all waters above the Severn River Falls to all forms of fishing for a period of 10 years and proclaimed the Queen Mine Hole a fish sanctuary. Over the next nine years the club made at least four excursions to the Mingoola River (NSW) and returned with the following catches (Table 3) to stock into Queen Mine Hole, Rueg’s Hole (now Ron Anderson’s Weir), Hindmarsh’s Hole and Boltons Hole (now Booth’s Weir) near Stanthorpe:

Table 3 Historic stocking in Stanthorpe

Eel tailed catfish Murray cod Golden perch Silver perch April 1926 31 10 8 115 April 1928 164 34 5 8 April 1932 8 3 0 0 April 1934 0 7 11 3

All of the fish survived except for silver perch. The other species bred well in the waterways and resulted in good catches when the waters were reopened to fishing. This process of collecting breeding fish from other areas was repeated from areas such as Texas, Mingoola, Sundown, Pikes Creek and Goondiwindi. (Provided by Graeme Moore, 2005).

Hatchery technology for the production of Australian native fish has been available to stocking programs since the 1970s. Initial work in Queensland concentrated on hatchery production and stocking of several of Queensland’s freshwater sport fishes with little consideration given to the impacts of translocation. This resulted in sooty grunter being stocked into numerous rivers and impoundments in north and . Other species that were stocked include silver perch, sleepy cod, eel tailed catfish and saratoga. The stocking activities undertaken as part of this program are tabled below in Table 4:

Table 4 Fish stocking activities by DPI Walkamin

Species Site Years stocked Total released Result Sleepy cod Lake Morris 1978–1980 2438 Reproducing population established 1981–82 300 Not sampled Granite Creek 1981–82 161 Not sampled North 1978–79 18 Not sampled Burdekin River 1980–83 8501 Reproducing population established 1979–80 2448 No recaptures

4 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Species Site Years stocked Total released Result 1980–81 20 Not sampled 1980–81 1950 Not sampled Awoonga Dam 1980–81 1986 No recaptures Monduran Dam 1981–82 100 No recaptures Sooty grunter 1979–80 2030 Reproducing population established Lake Morris 1977–79 1995 Population established Barron River 1979–80 4071 Reproducing population established Tinaroo Dam 1982–88 91 716 Reproducing population established North Johnstone River 1979–80 2080 Reproducing population established North Beatrice River 1980–81 and 883 Population established 1984–85 Millstream River 1982–85 1650 Not sampled Attie Creek 1981–82 66 Population established 1980–81 1232 Reproducing population established Ross River Dam 1979–80 4070 Population established Gunpowder Dam 1980–81 1000 Not sampled 1984–85 30 000 Not sampled Pioneer River/Cattle 1979–81 2371 Reproducing population Creek established 1979–80, 69 400 Population established 1984–85 and 1987–88 Funnel Creek 1982–83 19 000 Not sampled Murray Creek 1982–83 11 000 Not sampled Brigalow Research 1983–84 500 Not sampled Station Awoonga Dam 1980–83 25 684 Population established 1979–80 1890 No recaptures Monduran Dam 1981–83 36 186 No recaptures 1985–86 8238 Population established Silver perch Tinaroo Dam 1980–83 68 959 Population not established Bird Park 1982–83 100 All died 1984-85 5000 Not sampled Awoonga Dam 1982–83 17 500 No recaptures 1984–85 12 000 No recaptures Northern Saratoga Tinaroo Dam 1979–85 120 Population established Bony bream Lake Morris 1979–80 2500 Reproducing population established

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 5 Species Site Years stocked Total released Result Tinaroo Dam 1979–80 14 500 Reproducing population established East Barron Storage 1979–80 600 No recaptures Eel tailed catfish Lake Morris 1981–82 284 Reproducing population established Tinaroo Dam 1978–79 and 7073 Reproducing population 1982–83 established Beatrice River 1984–85 610 Not sampled

Historically, fish stocked into waterways were caught as juveniles and adults and moved between waterways. When mass stocking of fish first began in 1986, fingerlings were sourced from DPI Walkamin, DPI Northern Fisheries Centre and hatcheries in New South Wales. This continued until hatcheries in Queensland became established and able to fulfil the orders. In 1986 only golden perch, silver perch and Murray cod were able to be produced. Other species were able to be produced in subsequent years, including barramundi (1986), Australian bass (1988) and Mary River cod (1996). From 1986–2000/01, DPI facilitated the purchase and delivery of fingerlings to impoundments and waterways throughout Queensland. DPI fisheries extension officers would determine which waterbodies would receive fingerlings on an annual basis. Tenders would then be called for Queensland and New South Wales commercial hatcheries to fill the orders as determined by DPI. Tenders were called for each individual stocking and the quoted price was to include supply and delivery of the fingerlings to the nominated waterbody. From 2001, DPI&F passed on the responsibility of sourcing fingerlings to the individual stocking groups. From 1985 to 2004 the Northern Fisheries Centre experimented with the production of barramundi and mangrove jack to develop effective techniques to pass on to hatcheries. The aquaculture industry has since taken over barramundi production and are able to do so more economically. Mangrove jack experiments were largely unsuccessful and did not result in reliable commercial production due to spawning was irregular and larvae did not have reliable survival rates. As a result of the experiments, approximately 2.5 million barramundi fingerlings were produced and stocked by stocking groups into waterways of north Queensland and 15 000 mangrove jack were stocked into impounded waters of north Queensland. The production of fingerlings by DPI&F ceased in 2004 due to changing government priorities. Administrative arrangements

Fish stocking activities have been administered by various agencies over the last 20 years. Historical management prior to this is difficult to determine because of a lack of records; however, arrangements from 1985 are briefly described below. Queensland Fisheries Management Authority (QFMA) and Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) (1985–2001)

In 1996, a memorandum of understanding was made between the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) and Queensland Fisheries Management Authority (QFMA) in regards to the management of fish stocking stating: • QDPI was responsible for the development of strategic policy for fish stocking of marine and freshwaters and for the establishment of community-based fish stocking groups. • QFMA’s role was to consult with QDPI on selection of areas, species to be stocked, stocking rates, translocation issues and any other general issues on fish stocking.

The QFMA had the overall responsibility for issuing permits to stock fish, the development of management plans for stocked fisheries and establishment of the Freshwater Management Advisory Committee and Freshwater Fishing Forums, to which QDPI had membership. A key milestone in the history of stocking in Queensland was the introduction of the Recreational Fishing Enhancement Program (RFEP) in 1986. Activities associated with the program included stocking

6 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland impoundments to create recreational fisheries, monitoring, Mary River cod production technology, barramundi production and research, tailor and mackerel tagging, marine habitat regeneration and mud crab production technology. While the marine aspects of the program were not continued, the freshwater/estuarine stocking program has resulted in the successful and widespread development of fishing opportunities throughout Queensland. In 1996, the QFMA introduced general fisheries permits for stocking of public waters which state conditions relating to: • specific locations listed • numbers allowed to be stocked • species allowed to be stocked • monitoring.

In 2000, the Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) Scheme was introduced with the aim of raising funds to help purchase native fish fingerlings for participating impoundments throughout Queensland. The Scheme has provided much needed funds to stocking groups for the continued purchase of fingerlings for their impoundments. Queensland Fisheries Service (QFS) (2001–2003)

In 2001, the QFMA was absorbed into the Queensland Fisheries Service (QFS), a business group within Queensland Department of Primary Industries. QFS existed from 2001–2003. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) (2003–current)

QFS has since become the Fisheries group within the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F). The Recreational Fisheries and Freshwater Habitat section of the Fisheries, Aquaculture and Industry Development Unit presently manages freshwater stocking activities in Queensland. Funding

In 1986, the and recreational fishing groups initiated the RFEP. One of the aims was to develop the sport fisheries potential of Queensland’s impounded waters. Funding was used to stock impoundments and waterways in Queensland with fingerlings to enhance recreational fishing opportunities. Fundraising activities by the individual stocking groups also contributed to the purchase of fingerlings for stocking. Community stocking groups are active in obtaining funding through local council, government grants, sale of promotional items (stickers, shirts, coolers etc), fishing competitions and raffles. The Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) Scheme was an initiative that arose from the development of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999. It was introduced to provide further funding for selected impoundments that are on the Scheme (currently 30). Fishers aged 18 years or over wanting to fish in one of the impoundments on the Scheme are required to purchase a permit. Permits currently cost $35 per year, $7 per week or $31.50 per year for concession card holders (Queensland Government seniors card, pensioner concession card, health care card and repatriation health care card holders). At least 75 per cent of the collected monies are distributed to stocking groups for the purchase or provision of fingerlings and for other activities aimed at enhancing the fishery in the impoundments that are part of the Scheme. A maximum of 25 per cent of the collected fees are used for management of the Scheme by DPI&F. Money raised by the SIP Scheme is distributed to the relevant stocking groups by June 30 each year. Policies have been developed by DPI&F regarding the spending and carryover of SIP funds as detailed in Chapter 6. Dams that are currently on the SIP Scheme are shown on Map 1 (overleaf).

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 7 Impoundment Locations Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme

13� 14��16 Gympie � 15� 17

Weipa 19 18� 20� � 21� 22� BRISBANE 23� � 24 Gold Coast 25� 28� GULF OF 26� 27�

CARPENTARIA 29� 30�

Cairns Innisfail 1� Burketown CORAL � Dams SEA Highways Towns Ingham Impoundment Dams Townsville 1 Dam 2 3 Burdekin Falls Dam Charters Towers Bowen 4 Eungella Dam 2 � 78 3� Proserpine 5 6 Kinchant Dam 4��6� Mackay 7 5 8 66 9 Lake Monduran 10 Winton 11 Lake Gregory 12 Clermont 13 Boondooma Dam Longreach Rockhampton 14 Bjelke-Petersen Dam 66Emerald 15 Gladstone 16 Blackall 17 Lake MacDonald 7� 18 8� 9� 19 Bundaberg 71 11� 20 10� 12� 21 Maryborough 22 Lake Clarendon 23 Lake Dyer � �� Charleville 54 Roma � 24 � 25 � 26 �� 27 �� 28 � BRISBANE 29 Storm King Dam Cunnamulla � � � 30 � � � �

Map 1: Location of dams on the SIP Scheme

8 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 4. Current stocking activity

Current stocking activities are based on a cooperative relationship between DPI&F and community-based stocking groups. Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries

The function of DPI&F related to the Fish Stocking Program is to: • provide funds • assess fish stocking applications • issue permits where appropriate • contribute to collaborative workshops • conduct research and monitoring programs • develop education projects • facilitate the establishment of fish stocking groups • advise on the types and numbers of fish that may be stocked • coordinate the allocation of fingerlings and or grants • assist stocking groups in developing their Fish Stocking Management Plan • assist and provide ongoing advice to stocking groups • liaise with other government departments on issues related to fish stocking • develop policies and strategies related to fish stocking • enforce legislation.

Staff

Within DPI&F, staff involved in the freshwater stocking program include: • one principal fisheries scientist—overall management of freshwater issues, prioritises direction for the freshwater program • five extension officers based in Brisbane, , Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Cairns • one policy officer—responsible for implementing freshwater management arrangements and SIP Scheme • one fisheries biologist—distribution of fish stocking grants, organisation of southern workshop, conducting freshwater surveys • two administration officers—data entry for stocked impoundment permits, liaison with agents who issue SIP on behalf of the department, reconciliation of funds raised by the SIP Scheme.

Facilitation of committees

There are four advisory committees that make recommendations to DPI&F on freshwater stocking activities. The principal committee is the Freshwater Management Advisory Committee (FMAC) who meet at least biannually to provide advice to DPI&F on the management of issues related to freshwater fisheries and habitat. FMAC has an independent Chair and is represented by recreational fishers, charter operators, stocking groups, conservation organisations, research groups, government organisations and the aquaculture industry. FMAC also has several subcommittees beneath it made up of the following:

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 9 Scientific Advisory Group The Scientific Advisory Group provides advice and recommendations on research and monitoring priorities and scientific merit of fishery management arrangements. The committee is represented by DPI&F, Natural Resources Mines and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation and the University of Queensland. This committee meets as required. Subcommittee on the SIP Scheme This subcommittee meets in April each year to make recommendations on the operation and policies regarding the Scheme and discuss how money raised by the SIP Scheme will be distributed to participating stocking groups. Members represent recreational fishing, stocking groups, aquaculture industry and DPI&F.

Stocking and translocation subcommittee The role of this subcommittee is to assess applications from stocking groups to stock species which would constitute a translocation. Membership includes representatives of the aquaculture industry, stocking groups, recreational fishers and conservation. The subcommittee meets as required. Role of fish stocking groups

A special aspect of the freshwater Fish Stocking Program in Queensland is its emphasis on the development of the fishery in partnership with local communities. Stocking applications will not be considered unless there is a community-based stocking group to oversee the development of the fishery. The role of the fish stocking groups includes: • developing fish stocking management plans • selecting fish species, numbers and size • obtaining necessary approvals from DPI&F • carrying out approved/permitted stocking operations • providing advice on monitoring the fishery and associated habitat • providing a liaison and education function • organising funding arrangements (e.g. raffles, fishing competitions, government grants) • participating in consultation processes • participating in monitoring activities (e.g. netting, trapping, creel surveys) • undertaking risk assessments and, where appropriate, develop contingency plans to cope with incidents (such as fish going over dam walls, fish salvage) along with obtaining relevant permits.

Stocking groups are encouraged to increase their focus on fisheries habitat issues to support recreational fisheries. DPI&F supports the notion that stocking groups liaise with local environmental management groups (e.g. Regional Natural Resource Management groups, Landcare, Waterwatch) to raise the profile of fisheries habitat issues and increase their inclusion in regional management plans. A trial of the program is being undertaken, with eight stocking group representatives being nominated as fish habitat officers. The program will be evaluated after one year to determine its success and whether to continue the program with other stocking groups. Increasing stocking group involvement in future monitoring activities is being addressed through a review of all DPI&F freshwater monitoring activities. DPI&F lacks the resources to conduct stocking surveys in all stocked waters; therefore, monitoring activities that the stocking groups can implement are being investigated. Currently there are 75 fish stocking groups in Queensland. The stocking groups, and waterbodies stocked are listed in Appendix C.

10 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Objectives and programs

Stocking activities are closely related to the objectives of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999. These objectives are currently being reviewed. The objective relating to stocking will be drafted as (or similar to): • Manage the fishery under ESD principles in a way that gives optimal community benefit. • Ensure freshwater fisheries resources are managed in an ecologically sustainable way while minimising impacts on the ecosystem. • Ensure fair access to fisheries resources among commercial fishers, recreational fishers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander fishers and other users of the fisheries resources. • Minimise the risk of damage to freshwater fish, and their dependent ecosystems, from release of non- indigenous and noxious fisheries resources • Provide for the management and protection of key freshwater fish habitats taking into account fisheries issues. • Ensure there are appropriate provisions for fish movement at all new waterway barrier works and facilitate the provision of suitable fish passage on existing structures. • Manage the commercial eel fishery to ensure eels are used in an ecologically sustainable and economically viable manner, while managing the impacts of the fishery on bycatch, protected species and the ecosystem.

The initial aims of the stocking program in southern Queensland were to : • stock inland storages with native fish • create a recreational fishing resource • attract tourism • reduce the pressure on wild riverine and marine fisheries.

In north Queensland, the aim of the Fish Stocking Program was to: • stock inland storages • restore populations of native species inhibited in part of their life cycle due to development, habitat degradation and isolation.

Today, the stocking program is seen as a program that has achieved significant economic development in some rural communities. There are a number of dams that now contain successful stocked fisheries, which in turn has led to the development of supporting tourist infrastructure and provided economic benefits to the local economies (Rolfe et al. 2005). The fish stocking programs carried out in Queensland are described below. Conservation stocking

Conservation stocking is the most specialised type of fish stocking, with close attention paid to the genetic diversity of stocked fingerlings. It is usually carried out by government agencies (with the assistance of community groups) as part of a recovery program for endangered or threatened species. Conservation stocking is currently implemented in Queensland as part of the Mary River cod recovery program. A recovery team was formed in 1995 and a recovery plan produced in 1996. One of the recommendations of the plan was a breeding and restocking program in areas within the species natural range. Approximately 200 000 Mary River cod were released in south-east Queensland between 1998 and 2001 (Simpson et al. 2002).

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 11 With the increased distribution of pest species and environmental concerns such as drought, conservation stocking may have to be considered for species in low numbers in certain areas. For example, silver perch and eel tailed catfish are virtually non-existent within the Warrego and Paroo Rivers. If after control of carp or post drought the populations do not recover, conservation stocking may need to be considered for these species (pers. comm. Hutchison, March 2006). Enhancement stocking

Enhancement stocking is carried out in public impoundments and riverine areas. The main aim of this stocking is to enhance recreational fishing opportunities. In some circumstances it may also help to restore the natural diversity of degraded and isolated riverine areas. Put, grow and take fisheries

Put, grow and take fisheries are created in impoundments where most native sportfish cannot breed. The primary purpose of impoundment stocking is to create or enhance recreational fishing opportunities, and thereby contribute to local recreational opportunities and tourist-related income. The main species used in put, grow and take fisheries are golden perch, silver perch, Australian bass and Murray cod in southern Queensland and barramundi and sooty grunter in north Queensland. Commercial fisheries enhancement

This type of fish stocking is not undertaken in fresh or marine waters in Queensland. The only commercial fishery in Queensland freshwaters is juvenile and adult eels (neither of which are stocked). Indirect enhancement of some commercial fisheries (e.g. barramundi) may be experienced indirectly through enhancement stocking of rivers. Fodder fish

Stocking of fodder fish such as gar and bony bream provide a food source in waterbodies with large predatory stocked fish such as Murray cod and barramundi. No hatcheries produce these fish, therefore stocking groups must obtain a general fisheries permit allowing them to use non-prescribed apparatus (i.e. nets) to catch fodder fish from local waterways and place them into waterbodies listed on their stocking permit. Stocking of private waters

Stocking of private waters (e.g. farm dams) can be undertaken by land owners without a permit provided that they use fish that are indigenous to the catchment. DPI&F has produced a pamphlet for the general public called Stocking fish in farm dams and other waters on private land. Fish that are not listed in these guidelines require a general fisheries permit to be stocked. Stocking native fish for mosquito control

Biological control of mosquitoes by stocking native fish is often undertaken by local councils, housing developers and private land owners. Different protocols are to be followed depending on whether the stocking is to occur in private or public waters. The species of fish that may be used differs between catchments. Common species include glassfish, gudgeons, rainbowfish and blue-eyes. Full details can be found in the guideline titled Stocking native fish for mosquito control in fresh waters.

12 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Stocking considerations

Stocking proposals must be in accordance with the following principles: 1. All stocking proposals for new rivers must include a demonstrated need to stock. 2. Fish stocking in Queensland waters is undertaken in accordance with world’s best practice. 3. A risk assessment must be undertaken for each stocking proposal. 4. A proposal to stock must include a monitoring and evaluation component. 5. Community fish stocking groups are the basis of public water stocking programs and operate under a fish stocking management plan developed in conjunction with DPI&F and authorised by a permit. 6. Consultation must occur in the development of a fish stocking management plan with Freshwater Management Advisory Committee, appropriate agencies, organisations and sectors of the community.

In addition, the receiving water body must provide all of the basic requirements for growth and survival of the stocked species. Such requirements include good water quality with the appropriate range of temperatures for each species, adequate habitat for feeding and shelter and abundant food in the appropriate size ranges. Many environmental considerations can be addressed by stocking species that are endemic to the release area. An important concept to consider when planning a stocking program is the carrying capacity of the receiving habitat. Every waterway has a limit to how many fish it can support. If a waterway is stocked too heavily, there is likely to be increased mortality (due to predation, starvation and increased disease), reduced growth rates and increased dispersion. Other considerations such as time of stocking, stocking rates, size of released fish, release methods and species composition must be considered for any stocking program. The document titled Fish stocking in impoundments: A best practice manual for eastern and northern Australia (Simpson et al. 2002) provides advice on these issues. No public impoundment or waterway is considered for stocking unless a stocking group has been established to oversee the development of the fishery through a fish management plan, which is prepared in consultation with DPI&F. Five-year management plans are developed for each waterbody that clearly identify the responsibilities of the stocking association and DPI&F. The management plan sets out the group’s objectives and responsibilities towards the Fish Stocking Program as well as the resources to be provided by DPI&F. Additional information contained in the management plan include: • location of waters and surface area to be stocked • details of the environment to be stocked • proposed release sites • species, subspecies and strains proposed for release • numbers to be stocked • proposed sequence of stocking over the duration of the DPI&F permit • the source of the fish proposed for release • risk assessment and contingency measures • proposed sources of funding • measures of success and monitoring arrangements.

A General Fisheries Permit (stocking crown waters) application form is submitted to DPI&F for assessment with the management plan. If the stocking proposal is in accordance with DPI&F policies and strategies, a five- year stocking permit will be issued to the stocking group detailing species, number allowed to be stocked, waterways to be stocked and conditions to be followed.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 13 Stocked species and catchments

Australian bass (Macquaria novemaculeata)

Table 5 General characteristics of Australian bass Distribution Rivers and estuaries in south-east Queensland from the Mary River to the NSW border Habitat Widespread within river systems from estuarine areas to high elevation tributaries Diet Juveniles—aquatic insects, microcrustaceans, terrestrial invertebrates, filamentous algae Adults—larger crustaceans, aquatic insects, fish, molluscs, aquatic vegetation Longevity 22 years Age (and size) Males 2–4 years (18 cm–20 cm); females 5–6 years (20 cm–28 cm) at maturity Spawning season June–August Spawning cue Decreased temperature and photoperiod Fecundity Varies with size 49 000 (270 mm) to 1 429 000 (446 mm) Threats Natural population reported to have declined due to overfishing, translocations, habitat destruction, stream acidification, flow regulation and barriers to movement

Hatchery-reared fingerlings of Australian bass were first stocked by DPI&F in 1988. They have been stocked in most lakes and dams east of the Great Dividing Range, from Lake Monduran (Gin Gin) in the north to Hinze Dam (Nerang) in the south. Australian bass appear to have comparatively high survival rates under most conditions, are aggressive takers of artificial lures and baits throughout the year and are excellent table fish. Their biggest drawback is their annual urge to seek estuarine spawning grounds. Large numbers migrate downstream over weir or dam walls, particularly during autumn/winter floods (Simpson et al. 2002). Bass will not reproduce in impoundments as they require salt water to breed. Map 2 (opposite) indicates the catchments where Australian bass may be permitted to stock.

14 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where Australian bass may be released

River basin 1360 Burnett 1361 Nogo 1362 Barambah 1363 Auburn 1370 Eliott 1371 Gregory 1372 Burrum 1380 Mary 1400 Noosa 1410 Maroochy 1361 1370 1420 Caboolture 1421 North Pine 1371 1422 South Pine 1430 Brisbane 1360 1431 Bremer 1372 1432 Lockyer 1433 Stanley 1450 Logan 1451 Albert 1460 South Coast 1363

1380 1362 1400

1410

1433

1430 1420 1421 Queensland 1422

1432

1431

1451 1450 1460

Kilometres New South Wales 0 12.5 25 50 75 100

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 2: Stocking of Australian bass

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 15 Barramundi (Lates calcarifer)

Table 6 General characteristics of barramundi Distribution Wild stocks of barramundi are found in freshwater lagoons, tidal rivers and estuaries from Maryborough to Torres Strait and throughout the and across northern Australia. Habitat Large rivers with well developed floodplains characterised by swamps and lakes, large discharge, low overall gradient and slow runoff. Critical chain of habitats required for different lifestages. All lfestages may disperse throughout waterways from estuaries to fresh water. Diet Differing diet depending on age classes. ‹8 cm microzooplankton, small fish. 8–40 cm macrocrustaceans, fish. ›40 cm fish commonly from families Clupeidae, Engraulidae, Gobiidae, Eleotridae, Mugilidae, Hemiramphidae, Melanataeniidae, Atherinidae, Chandidae, Plogosidae and Ariidae. Longevity 14–20 years Age (and size) Barramundi commence life as males and then turn into females at approximately 80 cm. at maturity Males mature at 3 years (60 cm–70 cm). Spawning season October–February Spawning cue Water temperature 30˚C, high tide, new/full moon Fecundity 5 000 000–20 000 000 Threats Overfishing, habitat destruction

There are six identified genetic stocks (or management units) of barramundi as outlined in the Translocation of barramundi between management units policy. The genetic strains are listed below with the catchments into which they may be stocked. Care must be taken to ensure that barramundi from one genetic strain are not stocked into river systems containing a different strain. Given the low level of genetic differences between management units, limited translocation between adjacent units is permissible where a clear social and economic benefit can be demonstrated and provided there is no hatchery producing that management unit. • South east Gulf of Carpentaria stock (Point Parker to Pera Head)—Archer, Cloncurry, Coen, Coleman, Einasleigh, Flinders, Gilbert, Holroyd, L Creek, Leichhardt, Mitchell, Morning, Nicholson, Norman, Saxby, Staaten, Watson. • North west Cape York stock (Pera Head to Escape River)—Dulhunty, Embley, Escape, Jackson, Jardine, Mission, Skardon, Wenlock. • East coast Cape York stock (Escape River to Cooktown)—Hann, Jacky Jacky, Lockhardt, Normanby, Olive, Pascoe, Stewart. • Mid-north east coast stock (Cooktown to Burdekin River)—Barron, Black, Burdekin, Daintree, Endeavour, Haughton, Herbert, Hinchinbrook Island, Mossman, Mulgrave, Murray, North Johnstone, Ross, Russell, South Johnstone, Tully, Hull, Moresby. • Central east coast stock (Repulse Bay to Shoalwater Bay)—O’Connell, Pioneer, Plane, Shoalwater, Styx. • South east coast stock (Fitzroy River to Mary River)—Auburn, Baffle, Barambah, Boyne, Curtis Island, Dawson, Elliot, Fitzroy, Gregory, Isaac, Burnett, Burrum, Calliope, Comet, Kolan, Mackenzie, Mary, Nogo, Nogoa.

Dams and river systems in north and central Queensland have been stocked with hatchery-reared fingerlings. In Queensland, it is recommended that barramundi for stocking purposes should be tested for Nodavirus at intervals of 21 days and 42 hours before being stocked. The piscivorous nature of barramundi may mean that the stocking of barramundi could be a threatening process for other fish and crustaceans. Barramundi will not reproduce in impoundments as they require salt water to breed. Map 3 (opposite) indicates the catchments where the different genetic strains of barramundi may be permitted to stock.

16 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where barramundi may be released

River basin 1010 Jacky Jacky 1250 Pioneer 9130 Leichardt 1020 Olive 1260 Plane Creek 9140 Morning Creek 1021 Pascoe 1270 Styx 9141 L Creek 1030 Lockhart 1280 Shoalwater 9150 Flinders 1040 Stewart 1300 Fitzroy 9151 Saxby 1050 Hann 1301 Mackenzie 9152 Cloncurry 1051 Normanby 1302 Nogoa 9160 Norman 9270 1010 1070 Endeavour 1303 Dawson 9170 Gilbert 9262 1080 Daintree 1304 Isaac 9171 Einasleigh 1090 Mossman 1305 Comet 9180 Staaten 1100 Barron 1310 Curtis Island 9190 Mitchell 9261 1110 Mulgrave 1320 Calliope 9200 Coleman 9260 1020 1111 Russell 1330 Boyne 9210 Holroyd 9241 1120 North Johnstone 1340 Baffle Creek 9220 Archer Creek 1021 1121 South Johnstone 1350 Kolan 9221 Coen 9250 9240 1130 Tully 1360 Burnett 9230 Watson 1140 Murray 1361 Nogo 9240 Embley 9230 1030 1150 Hinchinbrook 1362 Barambah Creek 9241 Mission 9220 1160 Herbert 1363 Auburn 9250 Wenlock 9221 1170 Black 1370 Eliot 9260 Dulhunty 1040 1180 Ross 1371 Gregory 9261 Skardon 9210 1190 Haughton 1372 Burrum 9262 Jackson 1200 Burdekin 1380 Mary 9270 Jardine 9200 1240 O’Connell 9121 Nicholson 1050 1051 1070 9190

1080 Legend 1090 9141 1100 Stock name 9170 9180 9140 1110 1120 Central east coast stock 1111 East coast Cape York stock 1121 1160 1130 Eastern Gulf stock 9121 9171 1140 9160 1150 Mid north east coast stock 9130 1170 North west Cape York stock 1180 1190 South east coast stock

9151

9152 9150 1200

1240 1250 1260

1304 1270

1280

Queensland 1301 1302 1300 1310 1330 1320 1305 1340 1303 1370 1371 1361 1350 1360 1372 Kilometres 1363 050 100 200 300 400 1362 1380

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 3: Stocking of barramundi

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 17 Eel tailed catfish Tandanus( tandanus)

Table 7 General characteristics of eel tailed catfish Distribution The natural distribution of eel tailed catfish is in the Murray-Darling basin and eastern coastal drainages from the border of NSW to the Habitat Found in a variety of habitats including small coastal streams, rainforest streams, large rivers, dune lakes and stream systems with sand gravel and cobble bottoms. Moderately abundant in waterways with instream cover, but not common where paragrass is abundant Diet Juveniles—aquatic insects, microcrustaceans, terrestrial invertebrates Adults—large crustaceans, aquatic insects, particulate detritus, molluscs, terrestrial invertebrates and fish Longevity 8 years Age (and size) 5 years (33 cm–40 cm) at maturity Spawning season October–January Burnett basin; January–March Murray-Darling basin Spawning cue Increased water temperature and water levels Fecundity 26 000 Threats Introduced species (e.g. carp), habitat degradation, water infrastructure, disease

Eel tailed catfish spawn and complete their entire life cycle in freshwater and therefore will reproduce in impoundments. Their nests are characterised by a circular, saucer-shaped depression in the substrate— 0.5–2 m in diameter—and are made of course sand or gravel with a central depression of coarser material such as rocks and sticks. They are a sedentary species with small home ranges. There have been many introductions and translocations of hatchery-reared eel tailed catfish to rivers and impoundments within and beyond their natural range. Eel tailed catfish have been successfully introduced to the Burdekin River and Fitzroy River where they did not naturally occur. The existence of distinct genetic strains have been discovered in Queensland; however, no formal description or allocation of names has been given. Distinct populations in Queensland are thought to exist in: • Murray-Darling basin and rivers in south-east Queensland • Fitzroy River • .

Greater effort is needed to define the phyletic structure of T. tandanus populations in Queensland to identify stocks that may require enhanced conservation and to provided more rigorous management arrangements for future translocation activities. Map 4 (opposite) indicates the catchments where eel tailed catfish may be permitted to stock).

18 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where eel-tailed catfish may be released

Legend Murray-Darling drainage stock Eastern stock River basin 1280 Shoalwater 1362 Barambah 1450 Logan 1290 Waterpark 1363 Auburn 1451 Albert 1300 Fitzroy 1372 Burrum 1460 South Coast 1301 Mackenzie 1380 Mary 4162 Border 1302 Nogoa 1390 Fraser Island 4163 Severn 1303 Dawson 1400 Noosa 4164 Macintyre 1304 Isaac 1410 Maroochy 4172 Moonie 1305 Comet 1420 Caboolture 4222 Balonne 1320 Calliope 1421 North Pine 4223 Condamine 1330 Boyne 1422 South Pine 4224 Maranoa 1340 Baffle 1430 Brisbane 4225 Nebine 1350 Kolan 1431 Bremer 4232 Warrego 1360 Burnett 1432 Lockyer 4242 Paroo 1361 Nogo 1433 Stanley

Queensland 1304

1280 1290

1301 1302 1300

1320 1305 1330 1303 1340

1361 1350

1360 1372 4224 1390

4232 1363 1362 1380 1400

4222 1410 1422 1430 1433 1420 4223 1432 1421 4242 4225 1422 4172 1431 4162 1451 1450 4164 1460 4163 Kilometres 03570 140 210 280 New South Wales © State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 4: Stocking of eel tailed catfish

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 19 Golden perch (Macquaria ambigua)

Table 8 General characteristics of golden perch Distribution Golden perch are found west of the Great Dividing Range throughout the Murray- Darling Basin, except in the upper reaches at high elevations. They are also found in the Dawson and Fitzroy rivers and in the internal Lake Eyre and drainage basins. Habitat Lives in a variety of habitats, but prefers slow moving, warm, turbid sections of streams. Golden Perch can also be found in flooded lakes, backwaters and impoundments. They are tolerant of water temperatures between 4˚C–35˚C and salinity levels up to 35 ppt. Diet Aquatic insects, macroinvertabrates, macrocrustaceans, microcrustaceans, fish, algae Longevity 11 years Age (and size) at Males 2–3 years (32.5 cm); females 4 years (39.7 cm) maturity Spawning season September–March Spawning cue Rising water levels, increased daylight Fecundity 300 000–500 000 Threats Habitat degradation due to weirs, altered natural flows, barriers to movement, introduced fish, loss of hydraulic diversity

There are three genetically distinct stocks of golden perch in Queensland. Care must be taken to ensure that golden perch from one river system are not used in stocking programs for another river system. Most golden perch that are stocked outside their natural range in coastal catchments are sourced from Murray-Darling stock. • Lake Eyre drainage (Macquaria sp)—Barcoo, Cooper, Diamantina, Georgina, Mulligan, Thomson. • Murray-Darling (M. ambigua ambigua)—Albert, Auburn, Balonne, Barambah, , Bremer, Brisbane, Burnett, Burrum, Caboolture, Condamine, Lockyer, Logan, Macintyre, Maranoa, Maroochy, Mary, Moonie, Nebine, Nogo, North Pine, Paroo, Severn, Southcoast, South Pine, Stanley, Warrego. • East coast Dawson drainage (M. ambigua oriens)—Comet, Dawson, Fitzroy, Isaac, Mackenzie, Nogoa.

Golden perch are the most stocked native fish species in Australia, accounting for just over 50 per cent of fish stocking for recreational purposes in northern and eastern Australia (Simpson et al. 2002). They are a popular target species for angling in impoundments and rivers as they readily take artificial lures and baits and are considered a good table fish. Golden perch are a solitary species. Although this species reproduces and spends all of its life cycle in freshwater, golden perch will not usually spawn in impoundments. Map 5 (opposite) indicates the catchments where golden perch may be permitted to stock.

20 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where golden perch may be released

River basin Legend 10011 Mulligan 1421 North Pine 10012 Georgina 1422 South Pine Lake Eyre stock 10021 Diamanta 1430 Brisbane 10031 Cooper 1431 Bremer East-Coast stock 10032 Thomson 1432 Lockyer 10033 Barcoo 1433 Stanley Murray-Darling stock 1300 Fitzroy 1450 Logan 1301 Mackenzie 1451 Albert 1302 Nogoa 1460 South Coast 1303 Dawson 4162 Border 1304 Isaac 4163 Severn 1305 Comet 4164 Macintyre 1360 Burnett 4172 Moonie 1361 Nogo 4222 Balonne 1362 Barambah 4223 Condamine Queensland 1363 Auburn 4224 Maranoa 1372 Burrum 4225 Nebine 1380 Mary 4232 Warrego 1410 Maroochy 4242 Paroo 1420 Caboolture

10012

1304

10032

1301 1302 1300 10011 10021 10033

1305

1303 1361 1372

4224 1360 4232 1363 1362 1380 10031 4222 1410 1433 1430 1420 4242 4223 1421 4225 1432 4172 1422 1431 4162 4164 4163 1450 1460 1451

Kilometres 0 90 180 360 540 720 New South Wales © State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water

Map 5: Stocking of golden perch

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 21 Mary River cod (Maccullochella peelii mariensis)

Table 9 General characteristics of Mary River cod Distribution Naturally found in a few tributaries of the Mary River system Habitat Occur in a variety of types of habitat in the Mary River system from high gradient upland rocky streams to large slow flowing pools in lowland areas. Their ideal habitat appears to be deep, shaded, slow flowing pools with muddy substrates, woody debris and overhanging vegetation. Cod are caught in water that ranges from 0.8–3.4 m in depth. Diet Crustaceans, fish, frogs, snakes, waterbirds, mice Longevity Unknown Age (and size) 30 cm at maturity Spawning season Spring Spawning cue Water temperature rises above 20˚C Fecundity 2000 eggs per kilogram of mature female Threats Water infrastructure, competition with other cod populations

Numbers of Mary River cod are very low in the wild. They are listed as critically endangered under the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. A recovery plan has been introduced that includes the protection and rehabilitation of remaining habitat, improvement of hatchery rearing techniques, research to determine specific habitat requirements and regulatory measures to protect the remaining populations from over-exploitation. This species has been widely stocked into south-east Queensland dams and rivers from the Mary River in the north to Hinze Dam in the south. Fingerlings are only available for stocking through the Noosa and District Community Fish Hatchery and one commercial hatchery operator. Mary River cod complete their entire life cycle in freshwater and therefore are capable of spawning in impoundments although it is unknown whether the larvae and juveniles survive. Map 6 (opposite) indicates the catchments where Mary River cod may be permitted to stock.

22 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where Mary River cod may be released

River basins 1380 Mary 1421 North Pine 1430 Brisbane 1431 Bremer 1432 Lockyer 1433 Stanley 1450 Logan 1451 Albert 1460 South Coast

1380

1430 1433

1421

Queensland 1432

1431

1451 1450 1460

Kilometres 0 12.5 25 50 75 100 New South Wales © State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 6: Stocking of Mary River cod

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 23 Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii)

Table 10 General characteristics of Murray cod Distribution Murray cod occur in the Murray- system, west of the Great Dividing Range Habitat Slow flowing, turbid waters of low elevation rivers and streams. Also found in fast- moving, clear rocky upland streams. Often found in deeper water around boulders, logs, undercut banks and overhanging vegetation. Diet Crustaceans, fish, molluscs, turtles and small terrestrial animals such as birds, mammals and snakes Longevity 60 years Age (and size) 5–6 years (40 cm–50 cm) at maturity Spawning season Spring–early summer Spawning cue Annual flooding Fecundity Data scarce. 22 kg Murray cod has 90 000 eggs Threats Modifications to riverine environment

Murray cod have been stocked within their natural distribution. Translocations have also occurred in Boondooma Dam (Burnett catchment), (Fitzroy-Dawson catchment) and Longreach (Lake Eyre). Due to the predatory nature of this species, past stockings outside its natural range are considered inappropriate and are no longer permitted. Murray cod are capable of spawning in impoundments; however, levels of recruitment are unknown. Map 7 (opposite) indicates the current distribution of Murray cod.

24 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where Murray cod may be released

River basins 4162 Border 4163 Severn 4164 Macintyre 4172 Moonie 4222 Balonne 4223 Condamine 4224 Maranoa 4225 Nebine 4232 Warrego 4242 Paroo

Queensland

4224

4232

4222

4223 4242 4225 4172

4162 4164

4163

New South Wales

Kilometres 0 37.5 75 150 225 300

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water

Map 7: Stocking of Murray cod

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 25 Northern saratoga (Scleropages jardini)

Table 11 General characteristics of northern saratoga Distribution Patchy distribution across northern Australia west of the Great Dividing Range and a few scattered locations on Cape York Peninsula including the Olive, Pascoe and Lockhart rivers, Harmer Creek and an unnamed lake in the Shelburne Bay area. Northern saratoga have a minimum water temperature tolerance of 15˚C. Habitat Commonly near the surface of slow flowing sections of streams with overhanging vegetation or billabongs Diet Terrestrial and aquatic insects, crustaceans, small fish, plant material Longevity 6–7 years Age (and size) 48 cm–49 cm at maturity Spawning season September–November Spawning cue Water temperature approaches 30˚C Fecundity 30–130 Threats Unknown. Some threat from recreational fishing

Natural populations of northern saratoga are found in the northern Queensland river systems from the and south throughout the Gulf of Carpentaria. Hatchery-reared fingerlings have been stocked into Eungella Dam, Tinaroo Falls Dam, and Moondarra Dam. Northern saratoga are suspected to reproduce in impoundments; however, stocked species are rarely recaptured. It is unknown whether saratoga require certain conditions to reproduce or if fecundity is very low, thus hindering the establishment of self- sustaining populations. Redclaw crayfish Cherax( quadricarinatus)

Table 12 General characteristics of redclaw Distribution Rivers systems of Queensland and Northern Territory which drain into the Gulf of Carpentaria and a few northern east coast rivers on Cape York Habitat Found in a variety of habitats from shallow, clear, rocky creeks to deep, turbid slow moving waters with overhanging vegetation (Cook 1998) Diet Decaying plant and animal matter Longevity 5 years Age (and size) 1 year 50 g–100 g (Cook 1998) at maturity Spawning season Spring—summer Spawning cue Water temperature and day length Fecundity 100–1000 eggs per female Threats Seasonal flooding and drying of habitat causes population sizes to vary dramatically

Redclaw have been stocked in Tinaroo Falls Dam in the past under a fisheries permit. Several populations have flourished through the illegal introduction of redclaw into impoundments outside their natural range (Maroon Dam, , Wivenhoe Dam, Awoonga Dam, Fairbairn Dam, Mt Morgan Dam, Burdekin Falls Dam, , Koombooloomba Dam and Peter Faust Dam). Map 8 (opposite) indicates the catchments where redclaw may be permitted to stock.

26 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where redclaw crayfish may be released River basin 1010 Jacky Jacky 1020 Olive 1021 Pascoe 9280 1030 Lockhart 1040 Stewart 1050 Hann 9270 1051 Normanby 9262 1010 9101 Settlement 9261 9102 Hann 9103 Eight Mile 9260 9104 Cliffdale 1020 9111 Mornington 1021 9241 9250 9121 Nicholson 9240 9130 Leichhardt 9140 Morning 1030 9230 9141 L Creek 9150 Flinders 9151 Saxby 9220 9221 9152 Cloncurry 9160 Norman 9211 1040 9210 9170 Gilbert 9171 Einasleigh 9180 Staaten 9201 9200 9190 Mitchell 1050 9191 Alice 9192 Palmer 9191 1051 9193 Walsh 9200 Coleman 9190 9201 Edward 9111 9210 Holroyd 9101 9192 9103 9211 Kendall 9102 9220 Archer 9180 9221 Coen 917o 9193 9230 Watson 9104 9140 9141 9240 Embley 9241 Mission 9250 Wenlock 9260 Dulhunty 9261 Skardon 9121 9171 9262 Jackson 9270 Jardine 9160 9280 Torres Strait Islands 9130 9170

9151

9152 915o

Queensland

Kilometres 04080 160 240 320

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 8: Stocking of redclaw

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 27 Silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus)

Table 13 General characteristics of silver perch Distribution Silver perch occur naturally throughout the Murray-Darling system Habitat Rivers, lakes and . Prefers areas of rapid flow Diet Insects, molluscs, annelid worms and algae Longevity At least 26 years Age (and size) 2–3 years at maturity Spawning season November–January Spawning cue Water temperatures rise above 23˚C, flooding Fecundity 500 000 eggs/1.8 kg Threats Water infrastructure

Silver perch numbers are low and the species is considered threatened by the Australian Society of Fish Biology. Hatchery-reared fingerlings have been stocked in the Murray-Darling catchment and in impoundments east of the Great Dividing Range and north to the Fitzroy-Dawson catchment. Silver perch are the second most stocked species in Australia. Recreational catches of this species from stocked impoundments has been variable—juveniles are commonly caught on lures or baits, but catchability often decreases with the age of the fish. It is thought that this is because larger fish become predominantly vegetarian. Silver perch will not reproduce in impoundments. Map 9 (opposite) indicates the catchments where silver perch may be permitted to stock.

28 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where silver perch may be released

River basin 1300 Fitzroy 1302 Nogoa 1303 Dawson 1330 Boyne 1350 Kolan 1360 Burnett 1361 Nogo 1362 Barambah 1363 Auburn 1370 Eliot 1372 Burrum 1380 Mary 1410 Maroochy 1420 Caboolture 1421 North Pine Queensland 1422 South Pine 1430 Brisbane 1431 Bremer 1432 Lockyer 1433 Stanley 1450 Logan 1460 South Coast 4162 Border 4163 Severn 4164 Macintyre 1300 4172 Moonie 1302 4222 Balonne 4223 Condamine 4224 Maranoa 4225 Nebine 4232 Warrego 1330 4242 Paroo 1303 1370 1350 1361 1421 1360 4224 1372 1422 4232 1363 1362 1380

4222 1410 1420 1430 1433 4223 1421 4225 1422 4172 1432 1431 4162 1450 4164

4163 1460

Kilometres 050 100 200 300 400 New South Wales

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 9: Stocking of silver perch

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 29 Sleepy cod (Oxyeleotris lineolatus)

Table 14 General characteristics of sleepy cod Distribution Native to the coastal rivers north of the Fitzroy River and throughout the Gulf of Carpentaria Habitat Sleepy cod have an affinity for and need of instream cover such as woody debris, aquatic vegetation and root cover Diet Aquatic insects, macroinvertebrates, molluscs, fish, terrestrial vertebrates, fish, microcrustaceans Longevity Probably 5–7 years Age (and size) Age unknown, 28.5 cm females; 33 cm males at maturity Spawning season October–February Spawning cue Increased water temperatures above 24˚C and rainfall Fecundity Average 100 000 Threats De-snagging, altered environmental flows, disease (tropical epizootic ulcerative syndrome)

Hatchery-reared sleepy cod fingerlings have been stocked into a number of northern impoundments and rivers and have established reproducing populations. Illegal stockings of sleepy cod in the and Bjelke- Petersen Dam have also resulted in a reproducing population. Sleepy cod will reproduce in impoundments. Striped sleepy cod are native to the Gulf catchments. They are stocked and have established in Gulf impoundments. Map 10 (opposite) indicates the catchments where the different genetic strains of sleepy cod may be permitted to stock.

30 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where sleepy cod may be released

River basin Legend 1051 Normanby 9201 Edward Northern stock 9101 Settlement 9210 Holroyd 9102 Hann 9211 Kendall Southern stock 9262 9270 9103 Eight Mile 9220 Archer 9104 Cliffdale 9261 9221 Coen 9121 Nicholson 9230 Watson 9260 9130 Leichardt 9240 Embley 9241 9140 Morning 9241 Mission 9240 9250 9141 L Creek 9250 Wenlock 9150 Flinders 9260 Dulhunty 9230 9151 Saxby 9261 Skardon 9220 9152 Cloncurry 9262 Jackson 9160 Norman 9270 Jardine 9221 9211 9170 Gilbert 1260 Plane Creek 9210 9171 Einasleigh 1300 Fitzroy 9180 Staaten 1301 Mackenzie 9201 9200 9190 Mitchell 1302 Nogoa 1050 9191 Alice 1303 Dawson 9192 Palmer 1051 1304 Isaac 9191 9193 Walsh 1305 Comet 9200 Coleman 9101 9192 9103 9190 9102 9180 9193 9104 9141 9140

9121 9171

9160 9170 9130

9151

9152 9150

1260

1304 Queensland

1301 1302 1300

1305

Kilometres 070 140 280 420 560 1303

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 10: Stocking of sleepy cod

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 31 Snub nosed garfish (Arramphus sclerolepis)

Table 15 General characteristics of snub nosed garfish Distribution Snub nosed gar occur naturally in coastal estuaries throughout Queensland Habitat Restricted to lower reaches of rivers Diet Filamentous algae, insect larvae Longevity Unknown Age (and size) 21.5 cm–22.5 cm at maturity Spawning season Summer Spawning cue Surface water temperatures reaching 28˚C Fecundity Unknown Threats Barriers to movement, increased water turbidity

Snub nosed garfish are not available from commercial hatcheries. Some stocking groups are permitted to collect wild stocks of gar to transfer to other waterbodies. Snub nosed gar are known to reproduce in southern impoundments and are stocked as a food fish for larger predatory species and a recreational species. Great care must be taken to ensure that stocks are not translocated to inappropriate catchments. Snub nosed gar are able to reproduce in freshwater and a single release of several hundred gar has led to a large population in North Pine, Cressbrook and Somerset dams (pers. comm. D. Roberts 2006). Sooty grunter (Hephaestus fuliginosus)

Table 16 General characteristics of sooty grunter

Distribution Sooty grunter occur naturally in the coastal rivers north of the Burdekin River, in the Gulf of Carpentaria and west to the Daly River in the Northern Territory. There is some anecdotal evidence that populations in Lake Julius are endemic (pers. comm. M. Van Ryt 2006). Habitat Large flowing streams over sandy or rocky bottoms with sparse aquatic plant growth. Diet Algae, aquatic insects, aquatic macrophytes, molluscs, macrocoinvertabrates, crustaceans Longevity 5–7 years Age (and size) 6–8 months (5 cm–6 cm males; 8 cm–9 cm females) at maturity Spawning season November–March Spawning cue Increased temperature and water levels Fecundity 177 000 per kilogram of mature female Threats Over-exploitation, water infrastructure, habitat alteration

Hatchery-reared sooty grunter finglerings have been stocked into many north Queensland dams which has resulted in successful fisheries. Self-sustaining populations have developed in some impoundments and rivers outside natural distribution, including Koombooloomba Dam (refer to table 4), Lake Julius and Burdekin Falls Dam. However, most stocking does not result in self-sustaining populations. Sooty grunter will reproduce in impoundments that have suitable inflowing streams. Map 11 (opposite) indicates the catchments where sooty grunter may be permitted to stock.

32 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where sooty grunter may be released

River basin 1100 Barron 9151 Saxby 1110 Mulgrave 9152 Cloncurry 1111 Russell 9160 Norman 1120 North Johnstone 9170 Gilbert 1130 Tully 9171 Einasleigh 1140 Murray 9180 Staaten 1160 Herbert 9190 Mitchell 9260 1200 Burdekin 9191 Alice 1201 Clarke 9192 Palmer 9241 9250 1202 Bowen 9193 Walsh 9240 1203 Belyando 9200 Coleman 1250 Pioneer 9201 Edward 9230 9101 Settlement 9210 Holroyd 9220 9102 Hann 9211 Kendall 9103 Eight Mile 9220 Archer 9221 9104 Cliffdale 9221 Coen 9121 Nicholson 9230 Watson 9211 9210 9130 Leichardt 9240 Embley 9140 Morning 9241 Mission 9141 L Creek 9250 Wenlock 9201 9200 1050 9150 Flinders 9260 Dulhunty

9191 9190 9102 9103 9192 9101 9103 1100 9180 9141 9170 9193 1110 9104 9140 1111 1120 1160 1130 9121 9171 1140 9160 9130

1201

9151 1200 9152 9150

1202 1250 1203

Queensland

Kilometres 0 87.5 175 350 525 525 700

© State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 11: Stocking of sooty grunter

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 33 Southern saratoga (Scleropages leichardti)

Table 17 General characteristics of southern saratoga Distribution The natural distribution of southern saratoga is limited to the Fitzroy-Dawson catchment in central Queensland Habitat Turbid billabongs or large pools in slow flowing streams Diet Insects, crustaceans, frogs, fish Longevity At least 7 years Age (and size) 4–5 years (36 cm) at maturity Spawning season October–November Spawning cue Water temperature Fecundity 30–130 Threats Water regulation, lack of knowledge, delayed maturity and reduced fecundity

Limited numbers of southern saratoga were introduced to most impoundments east of the Great Dividing Range and south of the Fitzroy-Dawson catchment to Hinze Dam and north to Peter Faust Dam in the late 1980s. Southern saratoga are known to reproduce in some impoundments and have formed self-sustaining populations in Borumba Dam, Hinze Dam, Cania Dam and Lake MacDonald. Map 12 indicates the catchments where southern saratoga may be permitted to stock. Please note that southern saratoga are no longer allowed to be stocked in the Mary River catchment.

34 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland River basins where southern saratoga may be released River basin 1300 Fitzroy 1301 Mackenzie 1302 Nogoa 1303 Dawson 1304 Isaac 1305 Comet 1330 Boyne 1360 Burnett 1361 Nogo 1362 Barambah 1363 Auburn 1430 Brisbane 1431 Bremer 1304 1432 Lockyer 1433 Stanley 1460 South Coast 1421 North Pine

1301 1302 1300

1305 1330

1303

1361

1360

1363

Queensland 1362

1430 1433

1421

1432

Kilometres 1431 03570 140 210 280 New South Wales © State of Queensland 2007 1460 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water Map 12: Stocking of southern saratoga

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 35 Catchments where stocking is restricted

Catchments in Queensland where translocations of non-indigenous fish will not be permitted are tabled below. These catchments are of special conservation value and, in most cases, they have not received any translocations to date or any translocated species released have not established self sustaining populations. Many of the catchments listed in Table 18 have special conservation value such as valuable habitat. In most cases they contain native fish of high recreational value and there is no justification for translocating other recreational species. Stocking of public waters is no longer permitted in the . Map 13 (opposite) indicates the catchments in Queensland where stocking is restricted.

Table 18 Queensland catchments with restricted stocking

Drainage Catchments Lake Eyre Bulloo-Bancannia East Coast Baffle, Barron, Bloomfield, Curtis Island, Daintree, Endeavour, Fraser Island, Hann (with the reference number 9102), Hinchinbrook Island, Jacky Jacky, Jeannie, Lockhart, Mossman, Mulgrave, Murray, Noosa, Normanby, North Johnstone, Olive, Pascoe, Russell, Shoalwater, South Johnstone, Stewart, Stradbroke Islands, Tully, Waterpark, Whitsunday Island. Murray-Darling Gulf of Carpentaria

36 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Drainage divisions where non-indigineous fisheries resources must not be released

Legend Riv er basins in East Coast Drainage Division Drainage division 1100 Barron 1040 Stewart 1081 Bloomfield 1051 Normanby Bulloo-Bancannia 1310 Curtis Island 1060 Jeannie Gulf of Carpentaria 1120 North Johnstone 1070 Endeavour 1021 Pascoe 1080 Daintree Lake Eyre 1111 Russell 1090 Mossman Murray Darling 1121 South Johnstone 1110 Mulgrave 1290 Waterpark 1130 Tully East Coast 1230 Whitsunday 1140 Murray 1440 Stradbroke Islands 1150 Hinchinbrook Island 1010 Jacky Jacky 1280 Shoalwater 1020 Olive 1340 Baffle 1010 1030 Lockhart 1390 Fraser Island 1020 1400 Noosa 1021 1030

1040 1060

1070 1051 1081 1080 1090 1100 1110 1111 1120 1121 1130 Northern 1140 Territory 1150

1230

1280 1290 Queensland 1310

1340

1390

1400

South 1440 Australia

Kilometres 0 90 180 360 540 720 New South Wales © State of Queensland 2007 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries BASE MAP reproduced with permission of Geoscience Australia Data reproduced with permission of Queensland’s Department of Natural Resources and Water

Map 13: Basins where translocations are not permitted

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 37 5. Sources of fingerlings

Fingerlings for the Queensland Fish Stocking Program are sourced from hatcheries which may be commercial, stocking group operated or government funded. Hatcheries are responsible for ensuring that fish used for stocking: • meet agreed health and disease criteria before release • are the species or genetic strain of a species specified by the stocking group or individual as stated on their stocking permit • meet other specified requirements (e.g. size, minimise the number of deformities) • ensure shipments do not contain any other fish species and fauna and flora not specified on the stocking plan (e.g. frogs, insects, aquatic plants, and other fish species must not be contained in the transport medium).

Disease issues arise with any fish stocking activities; however, these can be minimised by employing adequate quarantine risk procedures at the hatchery, careful inspection of fingerlings at the release site, and by appropriate management and treatment of transport water and equipment (Simpson et al. 2002). Hatcheries producing fingerlings for stocking have a higher level of responsibility for maintaining natural levels of genetic diversity compared with those producing fingerlings for aquaculture. In order to optimise genetic diversity for stocking programs, the following procedures have been developed by DPI&F for hatcheries to follow: • documenting the spawning rates of individuals • swapping broodstock with other operators • regularly replenishing broodstock with wild caught fish • rotating broodstock • maintaining records of broodstock and progeny distribution • disposing of spent broodstock in a manner appropriate for the species.

An industry Environmental Code of Best Practice for Freshwater Finfish Aquaculture was produced for DPI&F and the aquaculture industry by Donovan in 1999. This document outlines best environment management practices for genetics, translocation, chemical use, disease and harvesting. Stock is sourced from a hatchery by the stocking group and transported either by the hatchery, stocking group or DPI&F to the desired area where the fish are released by persons authorised to do so under the stocking permit. Random, but infrequent, spot checks are made by fisheries extension officers to ensure that hatcheries meet their obligations. A fingerling assessment form has been developed for stocking groups and is contained in Appendix D. Commercial hatcheries

Fingerlings used by the freshwater stocking program in Queensland are largely sourced from commercial hatcheries. This is supported by DPI&F as a way to benefit and support the development of regional economies. Twenty-five hatcheries are currently registered with DPI&F and provide fingerlings for stocking programs listed in Appendix E. Production schedules for fingerlings from commercial hatcheries are provided in Table 19.

Table 19 Production schedule for fingerlings

Species Availability Size Australian bass November–January 50 mm Golden perch December–March 50 mm Silver perch December–March 50 mm Murray cod December–March 50 mm Barramundi October–April 50 mm

38 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Species Availability Size Southern saratoga Year round 200 mm Sooty grunter December–May 50 mm Mary River cod December–March 50 mm

It is recommended that hatcheries sight a copy of the appropriate stocking permit prior to supply of fish to ensure that the correct species or genetic strain are ordered and delivered. Stocking group hatcheries

Some stocking groups have established their own hatcheries to grow out or produce fingerlings. Grow out refers to the purchase of small fingerlings and the process of keeping them in facilities until they reach a larger size. Research supports releasing larger fingerlings to enhance the survival of the fish. Stocking group hatcheries are not required to be licensed by DPI&F as they do not sell the fish they produce. Stocking groups in Queensland which operate their own hatcheries and the species they produce are: • Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association—breed sooty grunter; grow out barramundi. • Fraser Coast Fish Stocking Association—grow out barramundi • The Tableland Fish Stocking Society Inc—breed sooty grunter, grow out barramundi • Mt Isa Fish Stocking Group Inc—breed and grow out sooty grunter • Gulf Barramundi Restocking Association Inc—produce barramundi larvae and fingerlings • Faust Dam Fish Stocking Association Inc—grow out barramundi • Chinchilla and District Amateur Fishing Club Inc—breed golden perch • Callide Valley Native Fish Stocking Association Inc—grow out barramundi • Cania Dam Fish Stocking Association Inc—breed golden perch and silver perch. Grow out Australian bass. • Somerset/Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Association Inc—breed and grow silver perch

Externally funded hatcheries

Jerry Cook hatchery at Lake MacDonald is the only externally funded hatchery in Queensland. Since 1998 the Noosa and District Hatchery Association, a non-profit community group, has played a lead role in the Mary River cod recovery program. More than 300 000 juvenile cod have been produced by the hatchery and released into waterways around south-east Queensland. The Noosa and District Community Hatchery Association is funded by the Noosa Shire Council and DPI&F. Due to hatchery costs exceeding the funding provided, additional funding arrangements are being investigated. Stocking groups who receive funding from the SIP Scheme are able to donate a portion of their government funding or other monies raised by fundraising to support the ongoing operation of the hatchery. These groups currently receive Mary River cod fingerlings from the hatchery at no cost as part of the Mary River cod recovery program. Broodstock collection

Periodically, hatchery operators need to collect broodstock to maintain genetic diversity of offspring/ fingerlings or to initiate/continue the breeding of the species. The need to collect broodstock from the wild will depend on how well fish are managed within the hatchery. By manipulating breeding to better manage the contribution between generations, it is possible to use and collect less broodstock. When broodstock collection is required, measures are taken to reduce the impact on the wild population. The number of broodstock removed from a source should depend on fish health and numbers within the natural system. Removal of too many mature fish from already depleted areas may suppress recruitment enough to cause local populations to collapse. DPI&F is currently analysing historic and current broodstock collection activities and proposing a strategy for future broodstock collection.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 39 Broodstock collection should be conducted using best practice principles for capture and handling of fish as outlined by DPI&F’s Fish Salvage Guidelines. Broodstock collection is regulated in Queensland through a General Fisheries Permit (broodstock collection) issued under Section 35 of the Fisheries Act 1994. The permit details the various fish species that may be taken, the number of fish that can be taken and from where, what apparatus can be used, and reporting requirements. Funding sources to buy fingerlings

The following funding sources are used to purchase fingerlings for Queensland’s freshwater Fish Stocking Program. Funding available to stocking groups to purchase fingerlings is largely through the freshwater Fish Stocking Program (previously known as RFEP), the SIP Scheme, Commonwealth Government grants and independent fund raising activities. Fish stocking program

Funds from DPI&F are distributed proportionally between the participating groups, according to the allowable maximum number of fingerlings as set on their stocking permit. These grants are capped at a maximum of $5000 and a minimum of $750. SIP Scheme

The SIP Scheme commenced in July 2000 and is administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries. The objective of the Scheme is to raise funds to purchase native fish fingerlings and otherwise enhance the impoundments on the Scheme throughout Queensland. No less than 75 per cent of money raised goes back to the stocking groups. The monies raised from the Scheme have increased each year since it implementation. The allocation of the amount of money provided to each impoundment on the Scheme is based on a formula of: 50 per cent angler preference/50 per cent surface area (capped at 4000 ha). Commonwealth Recreational Fishing Community Grants Program

The Commonwealth-based program was announced in 2004 by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. The purpose of the program is to support local initiatives that enhance recreational fishing and tourism experiences through on ground activities and education. Stocking groups that have been successful in receiving an allocation from this program are: • Burdekin Fish Restocking Association ($74 500)—to stock and monitor barramundi in the lower Burdekin floodplain. • Burketown Barramundi Fishing Organisation Inc. ($5000)—to grow out barramundi prior to release in the Albert River. • Clermont Fish Stocking Group Inc. ($37 000)—to release barramundi, golden perch, silver perch and sleepy cod. • Bjelke-Petersen Dam Fish Management Committee Inc ($10 250)—to stock southern saratoga in Bjelke-Petersen Dam. • Mackenzie River Fish Stocking Association Inc ($8768)—to stock and monitor barramundi and golden perch. • Millmerran Pittsworth Fish Stocking Association Inc ($5100)—to stock Murray cod and golden perch. • Fish Stocking Association Inc ($5000)—to stock barramundi in the Bowen River.

Stocking group fund raising

Stocking groups undertake various activities to raise additional funds to purchase fingerlings and pay for public liability insurance. Money is raised through raffles, fishing competitions, grants from local councils, sausage sizzles, memberships, catering, on-selling fingerlings (if stocking groups hold an aquaculture licence) and sale of stocking group merchandise (e.g. shirts, caps, drink coolers, stickers).

40 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 6. Management of freshwater fish stocking activities in Queensland

The ten principles of responsible stocking practices outlined by Blankenship and Leber (1995) have been used to underpin the management of freshwater fish stocking activities in Queensland. These are: • establish methods for prioritising and selecting species to be enhanced • create a management plan with long- and short-term goals, harvest regimes and genetic conservation objectives • incorporate life history and ecological attributes into enhancement strategies and tactics • create a genetic resource management plan to minimise inbreeding/outbreeding depression and to conserve genetic resources • create a disease and health management plan • define and use an empirical process for determining optimal release strategies • define and implement means to identify hatchery-produced fish • define quantitative measures of success, and assess the enhancement of project in terms of stated objectives in the management plan • define and evaluate socio-economic objectives • use and adapt management principles to evaluate and improve management strategies and tactics.

Legislation, policy documents and permits for the authorisation of activities futher enhance freshwater fish stocking management as described below. Legislation

Fish stocking in Queensland waters must be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Fisheries Act 1994, the Fisheries Regulation 1995, Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999 and Nature Conservation Regulation 1994. Relevant sections of this legislation are outlined below Fisheries Act 1994

The objectives of the Fisheries Act 1994 (the Act) are: (1) Provide for the use, conservation and enhancement of the community’s fisheries resources and fish habitats in a way that seeks to: (a) apply and balance the principles of ecologically sustainable development (b) promote ecologically sustainable development. (2) In balancing the principles, each principle is to be given the relative emphasis appropriate in the circumstance. (3) Despite the main purpose of this Act, a further purpose of this Act is to reduce the possibility of shark attacks on humans in coastal waters of the state adjacent to coastal beaches used for bathing. (4) Subsections (1) and (3) do not limit the purposes of this Act. (5) In this section, ecologically sustainable development means, development: (a) that is carried out in a way that maintains biodiversity and the ecological processes on which fisheries resources depend (b) that maintains and improves the total quality of present and future life.

Under Part 5 Division 1 of the Act the fisheries agency may make a management plan for a fishery. A fishery management plan may make provisions for the formulation and funding of fisheries restocking and enhancement programs (Section 36) and regulation of recreational activities in a fishery. Under Sections 90 and 91 a person must not unlawfully release non-indigenous fisheries resources or aquaculture fisheries resources into Queensland waters.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 41 Fisheries Regulation 1995

Under Section 35 of the Fisheries Regulation 1995 (the Regulation) General Fisheries Permits are issued for stocking Queensland waters. Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999

Schedule 5 of the Plan Schedule 5 of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999 lists those river catchments in which translocations are not permitted. Specifically, translocations are not permitted in all river catchments in the Murray-Darling, Lake Eyre, Gulf of Carpentaria and Bulloo-Bancannia drainage divisions, and in 28 river basins in the East Coast drainage division. These drainage divisions are Baffle, Barron, Bloomfield, Curtis Island, Daintree, Endeavour, Fraser Island, Hann (reference number 9012), Hinchinbrook Island, Jacky Jacky, Jeannie, Lockhart, Mossman, Mulgrave, Murray, Noosa, Normanby, North Johnstone, Olive, Pascoe, Russell, Shoalwater, South Johnstone, Steward, Stradbroke Islands, Tully, Waterpark and Whitsunday Island.

Schedule 6 of the Plan The stocking of artificially created waters on private land, such as farm dams, is based on Schedule 6 of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999 which lists fish species available from aquaculture for stocking farm dams and the river basins in which the fish species may be stocked. The basins where each species may be stocked include those in which the fish species occur naturally and those in which the fish species had been stocked regularly as part of the Queensland Government’s Recreational Fishing Enhancement Program and had resulted in established recreational fisheries prior to the introduction of this legislation. Stocking of farm dams or private waters that meet the requirements of Schedule 6 of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999 do not require a permit. Approval for other fish species must be sought from DPI&F. In the remaining river catchments on the East Coast where translocations may be considered, any proposals are assessed according to a standard decision-making protocol (Attachment 3). The protocol ensures that the right questions are asked, that decisions are made transparently using consistent principles and an assessment of the risk involved forms part of the decision-making process. Under Section 77 of the Regulation a person may release aquaculture fisheries resources into Queensland waters only if the person holds an authority allowing the person to release the fisheries resources; or may release the resources under the provisions of a management plan such as the Freshwater Fisheries Plan.

Possession and size limits Possession and size limits apply to all species stocked for recreational purposes. Size limits are in place to ensure that a fish has a reasonable chance of reaching maturity and breeding at least once before it can be taken. Possession limits ensure that anglers take only a reasonable share of the resource at any one time.

Table 20 Size and possession limits for stocked species

Species Size limit Possession limit Australian bass 30 cm 2 Barramundi 58 cm east coast 5 outside closed season. 60 cm Gulf of Carpentaria 1 from stocked impoundments during Max: 120 cm the closed season. *(see note on page 43) Golden perch 30 cm 10 Mangrove jack 35 cm 5 Mary River cod 50 cm 1 only upstream of Cressbrook, Hinze, Maroon, Moogerah, North Pine, Somerset and Wivenhoe Dams and Lakes Dyer and Clarendon.

42 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Species Size limit Possession limit Murray cod 60 cm–110cm 2 Northern and southern saratoga 50 cm Combined limit of 1 Silver perch 30 cm 5 Sooty grunter 28 cm 10 Sleepy cod n/a 20

*An exemption to the closed season and size limit applies for barramundi under Section 25B of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999. An exemption applies to waters or waterways upstream of the Awoonga Dam, Burdekin Falls Dam, Callide Dam, , Eungella Dam, Fairbairn Dam, (Lake Monduran), Kinchant Dam, Koombooloomba Dam, , Lake Corella, Lake Julius, Lake Moodarra, Lenthalls Dam, Peter Faust Dam, Teemburra Dam, Tinaroo Dam and Wuruma Dam where recreational fishers may take and possess one barramundi during the closed season. Anglers may keep one barramundi greater than 120 cm from these waters year round; i.e. the one barramundi that is kept during the closed season may be greater than 120 cm. Nature Conservation Regulation 1994

Under Section 86 of the Nature Conservation Regulation 1994 states that live animals (including fish) must not be taken into a protected area. Protected areas under Section 14 of the Nature Conservation Act 1992 include: national parks (scientific); national parks (Aboriginal land); national parks (Torres Strait Islander land); conservation parks; and resources reserves. This legislation is maintained by the Environmental Protection Agency. Policies

There are two national policies to which Queensland’s freshwater Fish Stocking Program must adhere, as briefly described below. National Policy for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms

The National Policy for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms—Issues, Principles and Guidelines for Implementation 1999 was developed by the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture (SCFA) in recognition of the need for a consistent approach for proposals to translocate fish. This document sets out agreed national policy principles for translocation. The process for assessing the risks of proposed translocations outlined in the document recognise the sovereignty of each jurisdiction, while providing a nationally consistent approach on which local assessment processes can be based. Queensland policies are consistent with the national policy principles. National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development

The national policy on ESD assists in clarifying and providing direction on sustainable use principles for fisheries management. One aspect of ESD is the ‘precautionary principle’, which calls for a conservative response to management problems, particularly in the absence of information about the condition of, and trends in, fish stocks. The strategic approach in the Fisheries Ecosystem Management section states:

Governments will seek to enhance the decision-making capacity of management authorities, resource users and individuals, in particular through enabling them to make decisions which are based on a knowledge of the likely consequences for the resource and the environment. Elements of a fisheries ecosystem management approach include: data collection and research on fish stocks and environmental factors to enhance management on an ecosystem basis; steps to address cross-sectoral issues between coastal management, total catchment management and fisheries management; awareness and education campaigns and development of strategic management plans, framed within the principles of ESD, in conjunction with rationalisation of fishing capacity and over exploited fisheries.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 43 DPI&F have several policies that have been established to aid decision makers when considering stocking proposals. Policies are aids to interpretation of the legislation and reflect the intent of the law. Advantages of policies include that they can be more easily amended than legislation, can be reviewed as required and are publicly available. A brief description of the relevant DPI&F policies is provided below. The full policy documents can be obtained from DPI&F. Translocation of fishes in Queensland

The following translocation principles are considered when assessing the translocation of fish species: 1. Stocking public or private waters with translocated species or non-indigenous genetic stocks of a species will be considered only where a clear potential economic, social or conservation benefit can be demonstrated and where no alternative native species in the drainage basin have similar potential. 2. Translocations will not be permitted in catchments where: • the integrity of native fish communities remains substantially intact, and/or • there are one or more threatened species of fish (conservation priority catchments), and/or • there are several native fish species of value (translocation unnecessary catchments).

3. Translocation of species accorded threatened status because of habitat loss or other factors is supported. Here, the emphasis should be on the establishment of breeding populations. 4. With the exception of threatened species, preference will be given for translocating species that will not reproduce in their target environment. 5. Where a basin or river system is contiguous with another state, the agreement of that state will be obtained before any translocation can take place. Queensland will seek reciprocal agreements from other states. 6. All potential translocations will be subject to a disease risk assessment to minimise the risk of disease transfer. 7. All proposals to translocate fish species or non-indigenous stocks of the same species should be considered on a case-by-case basis according to the decision-making protocols and procedures.

Translocation proposals are considered by the Stocking and Translocation Subcommittee, who provide advice and recommendations to DPI&F. A decision-making protocol for stocking new rivers forms part of the protocol. Protocol for stocking new freshwater rivers

This policy relates to applications that are received for stocking ‘new rivers’ (i.e. rivers not previously stocked under RFEP and sections of rivers including downstream of stocked impoundments) that have not been previously stocked. A decision-making protocol has been developed for translocation proposals. Translocation proposals are considered by the Stocking and Translocation Subcommittee who provide advice and recommendations to DPI&F. Translocation of barramundi between management units

This policy refers to Evolutionary Significant Units (ESUs) and Management Units (MUs). ESUs may be defined as historically isolated and independently evolving sets of populations. MUs are the ecological components of the ESUs that may be managed, but not necessarily preserved as separate entities in order to maintain processes and conserve the larger ESU. There are six barramundi MUs across Australia, being: • South east Gulf of Carpentaria stock (Point Parker to Pera Head) • North west Cape York stock (Pera Head to Escape River) • East Coast Cape York stock (Escape River to Cooktown) • Mid-north east Coast stock (Cooktown to Burdekin River) • Central east Coast stock (Repulse Bay to Shoalwater Bay) • South east Coast stock (Fitzroy River to Mary River).

44 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Given the low level of genetic differences between MUs, limited translocation between adjacent units is permissible where a clear social and economic benefit can be demonstrated. Stocking native fish for mosquito control in freshwaters

DPI&F encourages stocking of native freshwater fish for mosquito control in the following circumstances: (a) native fish are not present in the waterbody (b) it is unlikely that native fish will migrate to the waterbody (c) the species of freshwater fish proposed for stocking is found naturally in the local area (d) the surrounding habitat is suitable for both mosquito control and stocking of small native freshwater fish.

The guidelines are targeted at local governments, housing developers and community groups and outline the procedures to be followed to undertake such an activity. Guidelines for the carryover of SIP Scheme funds

These guidelines were developed to provide guidance for applicants and decision makers in relation to application for the carryover of unexpended or uncommitted SIP grants. They were created due to concerns that some stocking groups were carrying over large sums of money without being able to spend it. This was due to unforeseen circumstances such as drought and unavailability of fingerlings. When groups are carrying over a substantial amount, they are not given an allocation for that year. Instead, the money that was to be allocated to them is distributed to other groups who are able to spend the money. SIP funding guidelines

These guidelines were developed to provide stocking groups with an indication of what activities may be permitted and what will not be permitted when application is made to spend SIP funding on activities other than purchase of fingerlings. SIP operational guidelines

These operational guidelines are currently being finalised. The document details the roles of the staff involved in the SIP Scheme and procedures to follow throughout each stage of the SIP Scheme (e.g. delegations to issue permits, process for issuing permits, receipting monies, entering permits, replacing permits and allocation to stocking groups). Waiving and refunding prescribed fees

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for decision makers in relation to the waiving and refunding of fees prescribed under the relevant sections of the Fisheries Regulation 1995. The entire policy is in Attachment 8. Most of the fees for stocking related activities may be waived for the following reasons: • The extent to which the activity being authorised is in the public interest in that it provides an identifiable public benefit • The extent to which the activity being authorised is associated with a government funded program. This includes Commonwealth, state and local government funded programs • The extent to which the activity being authorised is associated with other relevant policies and initiatives of government. This includes industry development initiatives with high level government support.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 45 Administrative Procedures (permits)

SIP Scheme

Anglers who fish in a stocked impoundment on the Scheme are required by law to have a permit. Permits are issued by delegated small businesses throughout Queensland, online or through the Smart Service Queensland call centre. Money raised from the sale of permits is distributed before the end of each financial year with no less than 75 per cent of the total funds raised going towards the purchase of fingerlings or other activities aimed at enhancing the fisheries in the impoundments on the Scheme. DPI&F manages the SIP Scheme by: • providing support to agents who issue the permits on behalf of DPI&F • maintaining fisheries delegations for agents wanting to issue permits • inputting permit records into a central database • reconciling money banked by agents • distributing money raised at the end of each financial year to stocking groups that are part of the Scheme • preparing contracts between DPI&F and stocking associations to ensure that money will be used in accordance with guidelines and policies • assessing acquittals from stocking groups to ensure the money was spent in accordance with guidelines and policies • enforcing the requirement of fishers to hold a permit when fishing at an impoundment which is part of the scheme.

General fisheries permits

General fisheries permits are issued to stocking groups who undertake activities related to stocking. A brief description of the permits available are provided below. Under normal circumstances, there are fees associated with the issue of permits, but because stocking groups are community groups, fees are usually waived. The Waiving and refunding of prescribed fees policy has been developed to allow fees to be waived for community groups such as stocking groups. • Stocking crown waters Permit allows the holder to release fish into Queensland waters (other than farm dams or other private waters). At the end of each stocking season, the permit holder is required to advise DPI&F of the numbers of each fish species stocked during the season, the date(s) on which they were stocked and details of the release sites. • Broodstock collection Permit allows the holder to take fish to use as broodstock to produce fingerlings for stocking. • Possess regulated fish Permit allows the holder to possess regulated fish when conducting fishing competitions or moving fish from one location to another (e.g. fish salvage, stocking activities). • Fish salvage Permit allows the holder to possess regulated fish when salvaging fish during operational works or drought conditions. • Research Permit allows the holder to conduct research on regulated fish.

46 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 7. Monitoring of fish stocking programs

Queenslands freshwater Fish Stocking Program is monitored and analysed by a variety of methods. In the past, there has been little co-ordination of monitoring activities. The following information has been sourced from the review document Monitoring of freshwater fisheries resources in Queensland, DPI&F 2005 (unpublished). Recreational Fishing Information Services (RFISH)

The RFISH program was developed in 1995 to collect information about recreational fishing. Data collection techniques have included statewide telephone and angler diary surveys, boat ramp surveys and collation of historical fishing club data. The program is administered by DPI&F. The database contains detailed catch statistics for freshwater rivers and stocked impoundments as well as extensive social and economic analyses of freshwater fishing participation. Pre- and post-stocking surveys

Pre-stocking surveys are undertaken by DPI&F before the implementation of some stocking programs. Pre-stocking surveys record the number and variety of fish present in a waterway before stocking takes place. The surveys are undertaken to determine the species composition, the number of predators present and as a baseline comparison for after the fish are stocked. Post-stocking surveys are also undertaken by DPI&F to monitor stocked water bodies. This task is formally recognised in Management and Stocking Plans prepared by stocking groups in conjunction with their local extension officer. Regional extension officers and staff from the freshwater unit at Brisbane Head Office undertake the surveys (netting and electrofishing), usually with assistance from members of the local stocking group. Schedules for post-stocking surveys are largely prepared on an ad hoc basis by the relevant extension officer, often in response to specific requests from stocking groups. A small proportion of impoundments are sampled annually. Survey timetables are dictated by the availability of suitable sampling equipment and officer availability. Methods for data collection and analyses vary depending on the objectives of the particular survey, the equipment available and the staff involved. Surveys generally use some combination of electrofishing, gill nets and traps, although no standard sampling protocols or data sheets currently exist. Post-stocking surveys are commonly used to: • monitor the survival, growth and condition of stocked species • assess abundance of stocked species in relation to stocking rates • check for introduced species including translocated natives and exotics • describe local fish communities • monitor any changes in species composition and abundance (non-stocked species).

Biological data collected during these surveys provides feedback to the stocking groups on the status of the impoundment fish community and the stocked fishery. This information is usually provided in the form of a written report. Catch cards

The catch card program was introduced in the early stages of the RFEP to obtain catch data from a range of stocked fisheries. Catch cards (fishing record cards) marked with instructions and return addresses were distributed by DPI&F to the stocking groups. Stocking groups passed the cards onto local anglers who recorded details of fishing trips such as location, effort, number and species of fish caught. Completed cards were returned to DPI&F and information entered into the stocking database. Reports were able to be generated documenting CPUE and species composition specific to site. Previously the reports were generated biannually and distributed to stocking groups. No data entry has been undertaken on the catch card program for several years with formal reporting of the program being discontinued.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 47 Fishing competition data

Fishing competition data was historically collected as part of the permit requirements for competition organisers; however, the requirement for a permit was discontinued at the end of 2003. There was no standard format for the collection of this data and the amount of detail on data sheets varied widely. Angler-based monitoring and tagging programs

A small number of groups voluntarily record member catches in their own databases or run fish tagging programs. The type and quality of information varies widely between groups as does the method of data storage. Creel surveys

The creel survey program was introduced in 1991 to provide detailed descriptions of angler effort, catch rates and catch composition in a small number of stocked impoundments. The surveys also capture economic and demographic data describing the users of the fishery. Surveys are conducted by volunteers from local stocking associations according to a sampling schedule prepared by DPI&F staff. Data sheets are returned for input and stored in a database. Stocking groups participating in the creel survey are paid a grant of $2500 per year from the Stocking Grant Scheme. The creel survey program is presently being reviewed by DPI&F. Long term monitoring program

The long term monitoring program was developed to collect data for several major fisheries in Queensland. Freshwater surveys are conducted using electrofishing. Monitoring occurs in the Daintree, Herbert, Mitchell, Gregory, Johnstone, Mary, Noosa, Logan/Albert, Condamine/Balonne and Warrego Rivers. Freshwater fish assemblages are described in terms of species richness and abundance. Length-frequency data and habitat descriptions are also compiled. Socio-economic analysis

In the 1990s, a study was conducted on the value of stocked barramundi to the economy of Queensland. Projections from the limited survey then available indicated a benefit of $8 million to $15 million per annum from barramundi stocking in Queensland (Rutledge et al. 1990). A survey has been conducted on the socioeconomic benefits the recreational Fish Stocking Program has on the community. An economic study was conducted in 2002–03 involving staff from Central Queensland University and DPI&F. Data was obtained through the collection of surveys from anglers at the Bjelke-Petersen Dam, Boondooma Dam and Fairbairn Dam over a 12-month period. The conclusion from the study revealed that recreational fishing activities were important at each of the three dams and for their local communities, with average visits of 6–8 days. This period gives anglers opportunities to inject spending into the local economies. Estimates of local spending as a result of fishing at each dam in the study is shown in Table 23:

Table 21 Fishing expenditure

Bjelke-Petersen Boondooma Fairbairn Total spending per fishing group $308.75 $336.77 $536.50 Total spending per dam $775 890 $1 102 907 $967 523

Review of monitoring programs

DPI&F is currently conducting a review of monitoring programs to ensure a more co-ordinated approach which best uses the resources available to DPI&F. The final review document is expected to be finalised in 2007.

48 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 8. Current issues affecting management of fish stocking

The following issues are currently at the forefront of freshwater fish stocking in Queensland. Promotion of fish stocking and alternative funding sources

The main source of funds for freshwater stocking is through the DPI&F Fish Stocking Program (previously RFEP) and SIP Scheme. Funds from the DPI&F stocking program are distributed proportionally between the participating groups, according to the allowable maximum number of fingerlings as set on their stocking permit. These grants are capped at a maximum of $5000 and a minimum of $750. Impoundments recieving funding under the SIP Scheme are excluded from this program. Funds available through the SIP Scheme depend on annual permit sales. Permits are regularly promoted to increase public awareness of the Permit Scheme and hopefully gain a larger client base. Permits that are purchased online provide the most return to the SIP Scheme due to the level of administrative costs involved. There is a need to promote stocking activities to groups such as local councils, Tourism Queensland and Natural Heritage Trust groups, and encourage them to provide funds for stocking which in turn will bring social and economic benefits to the community. Options to progress this further are being investigated. Maintenance of healthy fish stocks

Stocked fish may have adverse effects on the receiving environment. Very little information is available on the impacts of stocked fish when introduced to a waterbody. Pre and post stocking surveys provide an indication of impacts on fish communities following stocking events. The health of stocked fish (and other aquatic fauna) is also dependant on the carrying capacity of the water body, which is discussed further in this section. Translocation of fish

Species not suitable for the catchment may be stocked into private dams, from which fish can escape in periods of high rainfall. There have been several instances of non-indigenous fish being illegally released into waterways to establish new species for recreational fishing. Such problems are managed by educating landowners on what fish can be stocked in their dams, discouraging inappropriate use of live bait and educating people on the negative impacts of translocated species. A list of fish that can be stocked in each catchment without a permit is provided below:

Lake Eyre Barcoo grunter Central Queensland Barramundi Lake Eyre golden perch Dawson River golden perch Welch’s grunter Mangrove jack Murray-Darling Eel tailed catfish Sooty grunter Murray cod Southern saratoga Murray-Darling golden perch SE Queensland Golden perch Silver perch Eel tailed catfish Gulf of Carpentaria Barramundi Silver perch Mangrove jack Mangrove jack Northern saratoga Southern saratoga Redclaw Spangled perch Sleepy cod (northern stock) Bony bream Sooty grunter Mary River cod NE Queensland Barramundi Australian bass Mangrove jack Northern saratoga Sleepy cod Sooty grunter DPI&F has produced a number of brochures for the general public to inform them about the correct fish to stock in privately owned waterbodies.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 49 Monitoring and evaluation of stocking

As discussed earlier in Chapter 7, DPI&F is undertaking a review of monitoring methods and determining which methods are most appropriate based on the information that is required. Resources are limited for the monitoring of the stocking program in the field. DPI&F encourages stocking groups to conduct basic monitoring in the waterways they stock to gain information. DPI&F is currently in the process of determining what information stocking groups should focus on collecting and how this can best be achieved. DPI&F regularly submits applications to the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation for funding to conduct research on freshwater issues (such as fish stocking), but to date these applications have been largely unsuccessful. Adding species to the freshwater stocking program

Stocking groups want to stock a new species to: • increase diversity of angling species • increase angling opportunities (e.g. shore-based fishing, family fishing etc) • encourage regional economic development by attracting more tourist anglers • be part of a species recovery program • assist in bioremediation.

Before any new species will be approved for stocking into Queensland waters, stocking trials must be undertaken. Stocking trials have occurred for: • Mangrove jack in Aplins Weir • Mangrove jack in Tinaroo Dam • Mangrove jack and freshwater mullet in Awoonga Dam • Pikey bream in Tinaroo Dam (survival of stocked fingerlings was zero) • Yellowfin bream in Awoonga Dam (no survival of stocked fingerlings).

Stocking trials for mullet in freshwater impoundments are presently being developed. The stocking of any new fish species into natural or impounded waters requires the associated benefits and risks to be assessed. A set of guidelines for trialling the stocking of a new species were developed by the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Freshwater Management Advisory Committee. These guidelines include obtaining information on the following: • prestocking survey on species composition and abundance • survival and growth of the stocked species • interactions with and impacts on ecological processes and aquatic communities • comparison with a control site • genetics • catchability (if stocked for recreational purposes).

A decision has been made within DPI&F that no additional species will be added to the stocking program until an ESD assessment of the stocking program has been completed. Fingerling supply

Supply of healthy fingerlings of the appropriate species or genetic strain is integral to the success of the stocking program. There have been some instances where stocking groups have been unable to source fingerlings. The success of the stocking program is therefore reliant on hatcheries being able to produce fish. Some stocking groups source fish from New South Wales when supply is unavailable in Queensland.

50 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Barriers to fish movement

Some native sportfish move long distances at certain times of the year as part of the breeding cycle. When stocked into an artificial impoundment, these riverine fish retain their instinctive movement patterns and may try to migrate upstream or downstream out of the impoundment. The movement of Queensland native fish is provided in Table 24. Fish may or may not survive the drop over a dam or weir wall, depending on the height and design of the structure, the amount of water going over the wall and the conditions below. There have been several graphic examples of this problem in Queensland. Large numbers of adult barramundi stocked into Lake Tinaroo in north Queensland have died while trying to migrate downstream over the dam wall. A large barrier net has now been installed in the lake in an attempt to keep the barramundi away from the dam wall, and this appears to have been quite successful. So far, the problem has been dealt with by a combination of rescuing fish from below the dam wall, returning them to the impoundment, and by maintaining annual stocking of the impoundments to supplement those fish that are lost.

Table 22 Known movements, habitat and range of species used for stocking

Species Type of movement Timing Habitat Australian bass Adults move from river to May–Aug Coastal rivers, lakes, estuary to spawn estuaries Juveniles and adults move Sept–Dec upstream for dispersal and summer feeding Barramundi Adults move from river to Sept–Jan Rivers, swamps, lagoons, sea to spawn storages, upstream as far as major waterfalls Juveniles move from sea Sept–Mar to river for dispersal/food and growth Eel tailed catfish Move, but reasons for Possibly following flow More abundant in lakes movement unknown events Golden perch Adults move upstream in Following large flow events Warmer, turbid, sluggish floods for spawning streams or lakes Sept–Mar Mary River cod Move within freshwater Unknown—may be similar Variety of habitats for habitat/dispersal, to Murray cod probably similar to Murray cod Murray cod Adults move upstream Sept–Nov Areas with cover and within freshwater for snags. Prefer deep holes. spawning then return downstream. May move considerable distances. Northern saratoga Unknown, thought to Unknown Clear streams, fast flowing be local movement waters and billabongs (appear not to move great distances) Silver perch Adults move upstream in Sept–Jan Fast flowing waters, floods to spawn especially rapids Juveniles move upstream Throughout the year for dispersal

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 51 Species Type of movement Timing Habitat Sleepy cod Juveniles move upstream Nov–May Weedy, slow flowing areas with snags and logs Snub nosed garfish Moves into freshwater to Sept–Apr Swim near surface. breed in weed beds. Can Require weedy areas to complete life history in spawn. Also found over freshwater. shallow sandy areas in current. Sooty grunter Adults move upstream to Aug–Feb Varied environments, spawn in rapids offstream lagoon. Most abundant fish in upstream reaches of many rivers. Juveniles move upstream Dec–Apr and over flooded plains for dispersal Southern saratoga Unknown Unknown Upper reaches, turbid areas

Any new barriers to fish movement constructed in Queensland waters must facilitate the movement of fish under the Integrated Planning Act. Some existing barriers in Queensland are having fishways retrofitted to them to enable fish passage. DPI&F has two teams that provide advice, research and monitoring on fishways. Socioeconomic analysis

In the 1990s, a study was conducted on the value of stocked barramundi to the economy of Queensland. Projections from the limited survey then available indicated a benefit of $8 million to $15 million per annum from barramundi stocking in Queensland (Rutledge et al. 1990). One study on socioeconomic impacts from stocking in three dams (Bjelke-Petersen, Boondooma and Fairbairn Dams) has been undertaken and results can be found in the document titled Estimating the value of freshwater recreational fishing in three Queensland dams. Limited analysis can be undertaken from the RFISH surveys. A project focusing on the social and economic impacts of stocking in all freshwater areas in Queensland would be beneficial to better understand the importance of stocking activities to industry development, employment, investment and social issues. Stocking rates

The limited data available from some of the more heavily stocked impoundments suggests an optimum stocking level of between 500 and 600 fingerlings per hectare of surface area, with an annual maintenance stocking level of 100 to 200 fingerlings (50 mm) per hectare of surface area at full supply level per season. Adequate monitoring of impoundments is essential if optimum stocking rates are to be developed for each impoundment. At present the resources to achieve this are inadequate. Stocking rates are currently 100–200 fish per hectare of water to be stocked in south Queensland impoundments and up to 400 per hectare in waters of north Queensland. These stocking rates bear no relation to the carrying capacity of tributaries upstream of impoundments where some fish may move. DPI&F is currently addressing the issue of standardising stocking rates in Queensland impoundments and addressing the issue of fluctuating water levels. Fluctuating water levels can have detrimental impacts on fish populations, particularly in times of drought or high water demand. Stocking groups are relied upon to make sound judgments on whether fish should be stocked in regards to the water level. Stocking rates are based on surface areas at full supply level. Consideration is being given to base them on an average of levels or the volume of the impoundment at the time of stocking.

52 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Size of fingerlings at stocking

The following information is taken from Simpson et al. 2002. Some research has been conducted into the survival of golden perch, silver perch, Australian bass and barramundi when stocked at different sizes in impoundments. In all species studied, survival tended to be highest among fish stocked at 50–65 mm compared with those stocked at 45 mm. There were some exceptions to this trend which were attributed to the presence of different predator combinations. For example, it was found that where Australian bass were stocked in areas with established populations of barramundi or mouth almighty, only the largest size class of bass survived. However, if these predators were not present, bass stocked at 35–45 mm survived in comparable numbers to those stocked at larger sizes. Pre-existing populations of bass and spangled perch did not appear to have an effect on the survival of bass stockings. Silver perch stocked in the presence of predators such as barramundi, bass, and spangled perch do not survive well. In these situations, the best results are obtained by stocking fingerlings that are greater than 50 mm, although these are still unlikely to survive in the presence of barramundi. The research showed that stocking juvenile fish into impoundments containing established populations of barramundi generally yield low returns. Stocked barramundi fingerlings (especially those over 50 mm) are less affected by pre-existing barramundi populations compared with the other species studied. Fork-tailed catfish and mouth almighty appear to be the main predators of barramundi fingerlings. Contingency plans for low water levels

The survival of stocked fingerlings in impoundments is greatly reduced by low water levels (Simpson et al. 2002). Predators become more concentrated and suitable habitat is restricted during periods of low storage capacity. All other factors being equal, survival of fingerlings tends to be best if they are stocked when water levels are high. Stocking is not recommended if a dam has been rapidly drawn down to less than 15 per cent of its full supply volume, or less than 20 per cent of its full supply surface area (Simpson et al. 2002). However, if a dam has been at a low storage level for an extended period (i.e. several years) a balance is likely to have been reached between the existing fish populations and the available food and habitat. In such a situation, stocking of fish at a density in proportion to the new storage surface area could proceed. A working group represented by DPI&F, SunWater, NRM, and FFSAQ are developing a position paper on fish stocking in impoundment taking into consideration varying water levels, with specific emphasis on: • determining stocking strategies for different storage levels • provision of storage behaviour information to DPI&F and stocking groups • how to calculate stocking rates based on storage levels • monitoring options. Impacts on threatened or protected species

There are significant concerns about the impact of fish stocking on waterbirds, frogs and aquatic invertebrates as outlined in Burrows (2002). Fish are usually shown to have a negative effect on invertebrate populations by affecting behaviour, habitat use and productivity (Burrows 2002). Some waterbirds are already under pressure due to habitat loss. The diet of waterbirds largely consists of fish and aquatic invertebrates, which is also the diet of predatory fish. Therefore, fish stocking can alter the abundance, location and size structure of prey items, therefore potentially affecting birds that compete for the same resources. Frog species that coexist with fish predators usually have coevolved adaptations such as unpalatable eggs and tadpoles, predator avoidance behaviour or antipredator defence (Burrows 2002). These strategies tend to be predator-specific and therefore are an unlikely to be effective against all predators. Fish predators can also induce behavioural changes such as reduced activity, changes in feeding patterns and reproductive habits. Other impacts from fish stocking include predation and competition.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 53 There is a need to identify species, populations, communities or groups of fauna in Queensland that are listed as threatened or protected under the Fisheries Act 1994, Nature Conservation Act 1994 or Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and assess the likelihood that they will interact with stocked fish. The risks then need to be evaluated with regard to threatened species from fish stocking, such as overlap in a geographical sense and ecological interactions in terms of predation and competition. Impacts on threatened or protected habitats

The provisions in Sections 120 and 122 of the Nature Conservation Act 1994 and Section 122 of the Fisheries Act 1994 to create fish habitat areas in marine areas have not been used for the establishment of freshwater aquatic reserves or protected areas. There are, however, some closed fresh waters listed under Schedule 3 of the Fisheries (Freshwater) Management Plan 1999. Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, fish cannot be stocked in national parks or state forests. Protected areas in Queensland need to be identified and the potential impacts of stocking need to be determined. Ecological impacts

Stocking has some impacts on predation, dietary overlap, water quality and displacement of aquatic vegetation, but the extent of this is unknown. This information would also differ between the type of species and location that it is stocked. Several studies have shown that changes to water quality can occur after stocking. For example Burrows (2002) reports increased algal blooms. However, there are also trials underway for stocking herbivorous species in the hope they will reduce algal bloom. Impacts on Indigenous communities

The impacts of stocking activities on the Indigenous community is largely unknown. This information would be useful to determine if the Indigenous community receives and/or perceives the same benefits of fish stocking as other recreational fishers. Some species (such as the Murray cod) are important to local Aboriginies, both in terms of a food source and in ‘dreamtime’ mythology.

54 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 9. Conclusion

No broadscale environmental assessment of fish stocking in Queensland has been completed. External funding has been applied for through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) to undertake such an assessment, but applications have largely been unsuccessful. No alternative external funding arrangements have been identified to date and it is likely that the ESD assessment will have to be funded by DPI&F. Previous work by the Freshwater Fisheries Unit has developed component trees for ESD (Attachment A) which identify relevant components in the areas of environment, economy and social studies. These component trees will provide an excellent format to structure the ESD study. Members of the Freshwater Management Advisory Committee ranked the compliance of the freshwater Fish Stocking Program with ESD as a priority issue in March 2006. The principles of ESD are: (a) to enhance individual and community wellbeing through economic development that safeguards the wellbeing of future generations (b) to provide fairness within and between generations (c) to protect biological diversity, ecological processes and life-support systems (d) in making decisions, effectively integrating fairness and short- and long-term economic, environmental and social considerations (e) to consider the global dimension of environmental impacts of actions and policies (f) to consider the need to maintain and enhance competition, in an environmentally sound way (g) to consider the need to develop a strong and diversified economy that can enhance the capacity for environmental protection (h) that decisions and actions should provide for broad community involvement on issues affecting them (i) the precautionary principle.

This document has detailed historic and current management practices of fish stocking in Queensland. As previously mentioned, the highly established freshwater Fish Stocking Program has not been assessed against the principles of ESD. This is a major shortcoming of the program as the principles are a key component of fisheries legislation in Queensland. Without progressing the freshwater Fish Stocking Program through an ESD assessment, management of freshwater fisheries will proceed without the guidance of such an assessment. The future development of the stocking program is dependant on the outcomes of an ESD assessment. For example, the review of the following management arrangements will not be progressed until further information is obtained: • stocking levels • new species for stocking • impacts on threatened species and habitats.

An assessment of the current Fish Stocking Program will fulfil DPI&F obligations to ESD and allow for more informed management decisions. It will also help to raise the profile of freshwater fisheries in Queensland. The freshwater fishing industry continues to grow in popularity, which is largely due to the Fish Stocking Program. Ensuring the program is undertaken in a sustainable manner will help secure its continuation.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 55 10. Aids to interpretation

Definitions

Exotic fish A fish that is not native to the country under discussion. Freshwater Water not influenced by tidal reaches. Genetic stock/strain A population or group of populations of a species that differ in their genetic make- up from other populations of the same species. Different genetic stocks/strains are usually separated geographically. Impoundment An enclosed waterbody formed by a weir or dam on a river. Noxious fish A fish that has been declared harmful by Australian law. The Fisheries Regulation 1995. Native fish A fish that is from a catchment. Non-indigenous A fish that is not native to a catchment. Open waterway Rivers, creeks etc that are not impeded by artificial barriers. Stocked fish Fish that are placed into waters for recreational angling or environmental reasons. Translocation Introduction of fish or distinct genetic stocks of fish to areas outside their natural distribution. Acronyms

DPI&F Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development ESU Evolutionary Significant Unit FMAC Freshwater Management Advisory Committee FRDC Fisheries Research Development Corporation MU Management Unit QFMA Queensland Fisheries Management Authority QFS Queensland Fisheries Service RFEP Recreational Fisheries Enhancement Program RFISH Recreational Fishing Information Services SIP Stocked Impoundment Permit

56 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 11. Bibliography

Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. and Allen, M. 2002. Field guide to the freshwater fishes of Australia. Western Australian Museum, Perth. Blankenship, H.L. and Leber, K.M. 1995. A responsible approach to marine stock enhancement. American Fisheries Society Symposium 15:167–175. Burrows, D. 2002. Fish stocking and the distribution and potential impact of translocated fishes in streams of the Wet Tropics, Northern Queensland. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries 2004. Fish salvage guidelines. DPI&F, Brisbane. Donovan, D.J. 1999. Industry environmental code of best practice for freshwater finfish aquaculture. Holloway, M. and Parker, A. 2001. Freshwater fishing in Queensland—a guide to stocked waters second edition. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane. NSW Fisheries, Environmental impact statement of freshwater fish stocking in NSW 2002. Pusey, B. Kennard, M. and Arthington, A. 2004. Freshwater fishes of North-Eastern Australia. CSIRO Publishing, Victoria. Queensland Department of Primary Industries. Freshwater Fisheries Research at Walkamin leaflet. Queensland Fisheries Management Authority. Fish stocking in Queensland—getting it right (proceedings of the symposium held in Townsville, 11 November 1995. QFMA, Brisbane. Rolfe, J., Prayaga, P., Long, P. and Cheetham, R. 2005. Estimating the value of freshwater recreational fishing in three Queensland dams. Central Queensland University, Rockhampton. Rutledge, W., Rimmer, M., Russell, J., Garrett, R. and Barlow, C. 1990. Cost benefit of hatchery-reared barramundi, Lates calcarifer (Bloch), in Queensland. Simpson, B., Hutchison, M., Gallagher, T. and Chilcott, K. 2002 Fish stocking in impoundments: A best practice manual for eastern and northern Australia. Department of Primary Industries, Queensland. www.dpi.qld.gov.au/far/9230.html www.deh.gov.au/esd/national/nsesd/strategy/fish.html We thank the following stocking groups for the additional information they were able to supply: Boondooma Dam Fish Stocking and Management Association Inc Bowen River Fish Stocking Association Bundaberg Sportfishing Club Inc Fish Stocking Committee Burdekin Fish Restocking Association Inc Caboolture Shire Fish Stocking Group Inc Charters Towers and Dalrymple Fish Stocking Group Inc Clermont Fish Stocking Group Inc Croydon Fishing and Boating Club Inc Curtis Coast Fish Stocking Group Faust Dam Fish Stocking Association Inc Gladstone Area Water Board Gulf Barramundi Restocking Association Isisford and District Fish Restocking Group Lake Coolmunda Restocking Group Lockyer Valley Fish Restocking and Management Association Inc

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 57 Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association Millmerran and Pittsworth Fish Stocking Association Monduran Anglers and Stocking Association Fish Stocking Group Inc Mount Morgan Big Dam Fish Restocking Committee Mundubbera Anglers Fish Stocking Association Inc Murilla Fish Stocking Nobby and District Fishing Club Inc Oakey Freshwater Fish Stocking Association Richmond Fish Stocking Association Inc Somerset and Wivenhoe Fish Restocking Association Inc St George and District Fishing and Restocking Club Stanthorpe Bluewater Fishing and Restocking Club Inc Surat Fishing and Restocking Club Inc Twin Cities Fish Stocking Society Inc Warwick District Recreational Fish Stocking Association Inc

58 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 12. Appendices

Appendix A—Economically Sustainable Development (ESD) component trees

a) Environmental impacts of fish stocking

Environmental impacts of fish stocking (native fish)

Ecological impacts Aquaculture-associated impacts

Habitat Trophic Protected Other Broodstock Disease Movement of Genetics interactions interactions species species collection biological interactions interactions and release matter

Area of Predation Habitat Habitat Location Fish Genetic conservation overlap overlap diversity significance Other Dietary Ecological Ecological Species Hybridisation areas overlap interactions interactions abundance Native Invertebrates Water Competition Predation Predation Crustaceans quality for space Competition Competition Displacement Invertebrates of aquatic vegetation

Flora

b) Impacts of stocking on social and economic wellbeing

Impacts of fish stocking on community wellbeing —social and economic

Contribution to Contribution to Health and saftey economic growth social values issues

Industy EmploymentInvestment Voluntary development activities

Freshwater Tourism Hatcheries recreational related fishing opportunities Recreational Infrastructure Competition with fishing related other recreational activities Management and administration Provision of food; health benefits

Community attitudes

Threatened species Enviromental impacts

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 59 c) Impacts of stocking on the Indigenous community

Impacts of fish stocking on indigenous community wellbeing

Economic Community Cultural considerations viability values

Job Tradition creation fishing Skill Access development to land Employment Continuation (including fishing) of activities Other

d) External influences on Fish Stocking Program

External influences on fish stocking program

Water Infrastructure Impacts on Fishing Political Pest-fish management development aquaculture pressure pressure infestations industry

Enviromental Boat ramps Climate Overfishing flows

Impoundment Accommodation Predation water levels and facilities

Access to Air-borne impoundments contaminats

Mechanical/ power failure

Water quality

60 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Appendix B—Translocations of native fish in Queensland

Basin Species Year/s Comments Burdekin Southern saratoga Released as part of There is little justification for further and silver perch RFEP translocation of these species due to the numerous recreational fishing species indigenous to the catchment. Sleepy cod 1960 20 released into Reedybrook Creek. 1980–82 8500 released in Valley of Lagoons. This species now common and widespread throughout catchment. Golden perch (all 1960s–1970s Small but unknown number released into Valley subspecies) of Lagoons. 1980s Commonly released into waterholes and farm dams throughout the catchment. 1991 Escaped from aquaculture facility and farm dams downstream and upstream of Charters Towers Weir. Murray cod 1991 Escaped from aquaculture facility upstream of Charters Towers Weir. Not known to have persisted. Sooty grunter 1960s–1970s Unknown number introduced above Running River Falls. Population established. Eel tailed catfish 1976 100 released into Valley of Lagoons. Population established but has limited geographical range within upper Burdekin catchment. Barramundi RFEP and SIP Allowed to continue in Eungella Dam. RFEP and SIP Above Burdekin Falls into Lake Dalrymple and Charter Towers Area. Redclaw Unknown Stocked into Burdekin Falls Dam and other areas throughout catchment. Spangled perch 1970s–1980s Released into . Population established. Fitzroy Silver perch Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Sooty grunter Unknown Proposals to stock will be assessed against translocation guidelines. Murray-Darling Released as part of No further translocations allowed as there is golden perch RFEP a genetic strain of golden perch native to the catchment. Murray cod Released as part of Large predatory species has the potential to RFEP have a significant impact on native fish. Redclaw Illegal introduction Self-sustaining populations established in Fairbairn Dam, Mt Morgan Dam, Awoonga Dam, Theresa Creek Dam, Cressbrook Dam, Somerset Dam and Wivenhoe Dam. No permits will be given to stock this species in this catchment.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 61 Basin Species Year/s Comments Boyne Fitzroy River golden Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. perch RFEP Silver perch Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Sooty grunter 1980–83 Proposals to stock will be assessed against translocation guidelines. Sleepy cod 1980–81 Proposals to stock will be assessed against translocation guidelines. Southern saratoga Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Kolan Fitzroy River golden Released as part of Proposals to stock will be assessed against perch RFEP translocation guidelines. Sleepy cod 1981–82 Proposals to stock will be assessed against translocation guidelines. Silver perch Released as part of Proposals to stock will be assessed against RFEP translocation guidelines. Sooty grunter 1981–83 Proposals to stock will be assessed against translocation guidelines. Burnett Murray cod Released as part of Translocation has ceased due to concerns of RFEP this species impacts on other native fish. Murray-Darling Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. golden perch RFEP Australian bass Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Silver perch Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Southern saratoga Released as part of Translocations allowed to continue. RFEP Sooty grunter Unknown Unknown if established. Mary River cod RFEP Stocked in Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Burrum Murray-Darling Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. golden perch RFEP Silver perch Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. RFEP Australian bass Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. RFEP Mary River Murray-Darling Released as part of Effects of further translocations to be golden perch RFEP considered as part of Mary River cod recovery program. Mary River Silver perch Released as part of Effects of further translocations to be (cont.) RFEP considered as part of Mary River cod recovery program. Southern saratoga Released as part of Effects of further translocations to be RFEP considered as part of Mary River cod recovery program. Murray cod 1880–1890s Small numbers released. No further translocations allowed due to presence of endangered Mary River cod.

62 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Basin Species Year/s Comments Brisbane Murray-Darling Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. golden perch RFEP Silver perch Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. RFEP Southern saratoga Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. RFEP Sooty grunter Unknown Further stocking subject to translocation protocol. Redclaw Illegally introduced Self-sustaining populations in a number of year unknown impoundments outside their natural range (Gulf of Carpentaria). Lungfish 1980–90s Resident populations in rivers and impoundments around Brisbane. Logan-Albert Southern saratoga Released as part of Stocking of saratoga to be assessed against RFEP translocation protocols. Murray-Darling Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. golden perch RFEP Silver perch Released as part of Translocation allowed to continue. RFEP Introductions Sleepy cod 1920–30s Kirrama Creek (population did not establish) recorded by and upper Herbert catchment (population Burrows (2002) established). and DPI&F: Sooty grunter 1923 Translocated above Herbert River Falls. Herbert Population not established. 1960s Introduced above Blenco Falls. Unknown if population established. 1981 Introduced above . Unknown if population established. 2003 Juveniles illegally introduced into Herberton Weir on Wild River. Eel tailed catfish Unknown Wild River, farm dams. Population established. Silver perch 1970s–1980s Stocked into waterholes and farm dams. Populations have not established. Golden perch 1970s–1980s Stocked into waterholes and farm dams. Populations have not established. Tully Brown trout 1960 Koombooloomba Dam. Population did not establish.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 63 Basin Species Year/s Comments Tully (cont.) Sooty grunter 1930s, 1960–1970s Koombooloomba Dam. Population established. 1985–86 Redclaw 1990s Koombooloomba Dam. Population established in low numbers. Barramundi RFEP Koombooloomba Dam. Stocking allowed to continue. Australian bass Unknown Escaped from aquaculture farm dams. Populations did not establish. Spangled perch Unknown Population established in Koombooloomba Dam. Silver perch 1982–83 Escaped from aquaculture farm dams. Population did not establish. Johnstone Brown trout 1890s Unknown were introduced. Populations have not established. Sooty grunter Unknown Widely introduced with populations established. RFEP Above falls on South Johnstone River and North Johnstone River. Populations did not establish. Silver perch Unknown Above falls on South Johnstone River. Populations established. 1950s Above waterfalls on North Johnstone River. These have resulted in established populations. Khaki bream 1950s Above waterfalls on North Johnstone River. These have resulted in established populations. Eel tailed catfish 1950s Above waterfalls on North Johnstone River. These have resulted in established populations. Sleepy cod 1978–79 Populations established in Upper North Johnstone catchment. Spangled perch Unknown Populations established in Upper North Johnstone catchment. Mouth almighty Unknown Populations established in Upper North Johnstone catchment. Barron Eel tailed catfish 1940s Populations have established. Sooty grunter 1980s Populations have established. Sleepy cod 1940s Populations have established and stocking is allowed to continue. Khaki bream 1940s Populations have established. Mangrove jack 2002 No populations established, although there are natural populations below the falls. Jungle perch Unknown No populations established, although there are natural populations below the falls. Golden perch Unknown No populations established. Silver perch 1980–83 Unknown if populations established.

64 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Basin Species Year/s Comments Barron (cont.) Barramundi RFEP Populations have established above the falls. Natural populations below the falls. Stocking is allowed to continue. Redclaw RFEP Species maintaining natural populations. Stocking no longer allowed to continue. Annan Sooty grunter 1980 Introduced above Annan Falls. Populations established. Leichhardt Sooty grunter 1984–85 Lake Moondarra.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 65 Appendix C—Fish stocking groups and waters stocked

Stocking association Waters stocked Australian Bass Association Inc Robina Lakes Baralaba Recreation and Fish Stocking Group Inc Neville Hewitt Weir Biggenden Amateur Fishing Club Inc Biggenden Lagoon Bjelke-Petersen Dam Fish Management Committee Inc Bjelke-Petersen Dam Boondooma Dam Fish Stocking and Management Boondooma Dam Association Inc Borumba Fishing Club Borumba Dam Bowen River Fish Stocking Association Inc Bowen River Weir, Bowen River, Mullers Lagoon Brisbane Valley Anglers Fish Stocking Association Inc Mt Crosby Weir Bundaberg Sportfishing Club Incorporated Fish Burnett River Barrage, Lake Gregory, Elliott River, Stocking Committee Splitters Creek Burdekin Fish Restocking Association Inc Burdekin Falls Dam, Clare Weir, Burdekin River Caboolture Shire Fish Stocking Group Inc Weir, Waraba Creek Weir, Woodford OSS Dam Cairns Area Fish Stocking Group Inc Russell River, , Barron River, Trinity Inlet Callide Valley Native Fish Stocking Association Inc Callide Dam Caloundra City Fish Stocking Association Lake Baroon Cania Dam Fish Stocking Association Inc Cania Dam, Bunyip Hole, Mulgildie Weir Cardwell Shire Fish Stocking Society Inc Tully River, Hull River, Murray River Carpbusters Inc Bromelton Weir, , Albert River Charleville Fishing and Restocking Club Inc , Ward River, Langlo River Charters Towers Dalrymple Fish Stocking Group Charters Towers Weir, Burdekin River To Valley of Lagoons Chinchilla and District Amateur Fishing Club Inc Chinchilla Weir, , Charleys Creek, Wambo Creek Clermont Fishstocking Group Theresa Creek Dam Cloncurry Fish Stocking Group Inc Chinaman Creek Dam, Lake Corella Cooktown Fish Restocking Association Inc Annan River Weir, Annan River, Croydon Fishing and Boating Club Lake Belmore Curtis Coast Fish Stocking Group Lake Callemondah, Lake Toondoon, Railway Dam Emerald Fish Stocking Group Fairbairn Dam, Emerald Town Weir, Selma Weir Faust Dam Fish Stocking Association Inc Peter Faust Dam Fitzroy River Fish Management Group Fitzroy Barrage Fraser Coast Fish Stocking Association Inc Lenthalls Dam Gayndah Anglers and Fish Stocking Association Inc Claude Wharton Weir Glenlyon Dam Fish Restocking Group Inc Glenlyon Dam Goondiwindi Memorial Club Fishing and Restocking Goondiwindi Weir Group Gordonbrook Dam Fish Management Committee Gordonbrook Dam Gulf Barramundi Restocking Association Inc , Albert River Hinchinbrook Fish Care Group Inc Herbert River

66 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Stocking association Waters stocked Hinze Dam Fish Management Advisory Committee Hinze Dam Inglewood Fish and Stocking Association Inc MacIntyre Brook Jennings Wallangarra Fishing Club Inc Beehive Dam, Accommodation Creek, Severn River, Johnstone Shire Fish Stocking Society Inc Johnstone River, Moresby River, Liverpool Creek Lake Coolmunda Restocking Group Inc Coolmunda Dam Lake MacDonald Freshwater Fishing Association Inc Lake MacDonald Lockyer Valley Fish Restocking Association Inc Lake Dyer, Lake Clarendon Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association Kinchant Dam, Eungella Dam, Teemburra Dam, Pioneer River MacKenzie River Fish Stocking Association Bedford Weir, Mackenzie River Maroon Moogerah Fish Management Association Inc Maroon Dam, Moogerah Dam Millmerran and Pittsworth District Fish Stocking Lemon Tree Weir, Yarramalong Weir, Cecil Plains Weir Association Inc Mitchell Fish Restocking Group Inc Monduran Angling and Stocking Assn Inc Lake Monduran Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group Inc Lake Julius, Lake Moondarra, East Leichhardt Dam Moura Apex Fish Stocking Group Inc Moura Weir Mt Morgan Big Dam Fish Restocking Committee Mount Morgan Dam Mundubbera Anglers Fish Stocking Association Inc Jones Weir, Golby Weir, Boyne River, Auburn River Murilla Fish Stocking Association Inc Gill Weir Nobby and District Fishing Club Inc Talgai Weir, Condamine River, Kings Creek Noosa and District Fishing Club Inc Lake MacDonald Oakey Freshwater Fish Restocking Association Oakey Creek, Gowrie Creek Pine Rivers Fish Management Association Inc North Pine Dam Ravenshoe and Koombooloomba Fish Restock Lake Koombooloomba Committee Inc Richmond Fish Stocking Association Inc Lake Fred Triton Somerset and Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Association Somerset Dam, Wivenhoe Dam, Atkinson’s Dam Inc St George and District Fishing and Restocking Club Beardmore Dam, Jack Taylor Weir, (Jack Inc Taylor Weir to Dirrandbandi), (Mt Driven to Thallon) Stanthorpe Bluewater Fishing Club Inc Storm King Dam, Quart Pot Creek, Severn River Surat Fishing and Restocking Club Inc Surat Weir, , Balonne River Tableland Fish Stocking Society Inc Tinaroo Falls Dam, Johnstone River (upper Tablelands), Barron River (Mareeba), Mitchell River (Mareeba) Tara Fish Restocking Association Inc Tara Weir, Undulla Creek Taroom and District Fishing and Restocking Club Inc Glebe Weir Texas Fishing Club Inc Bonshaw Weir, Beebo Weir, Cunningham Weir and Glenarbon Weir Toowoomba and District Fish Stocking Association Cooby Dam, Cressbrook Dam Twin Cities Fish Stocking Society Inc Aplins Weir, , Alligator Creek, Ross River Dam, Black Weir, Gleeson Weir

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 67 Stocking association Waters stocked Warwick District Recreational Fish Stocking Leslie Dam, Connolly Dam, Upper Condamine River Association Inc Wuruma Dam Fish Restocking Association Inc Wuruma Dam Yarraman Fish Restocking Association Inc Pukallus Weir and McCauley Weir

68 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Appendix D—Fingerling assessment form

Stocking group name Waters to be stocked Delivery information

1. Person accepting delivery:

2. Contact telephone number:

3. Date: 4. Time:

5. Species and number ordered:

Species Number

Quoted price = $

6. Species and number delivered (as per invoice/delivery quote):

Species Number

7. Describe the health of the fingerlings (e.g active, red spots, mucus, fin rot, gasping at surface, many dead, etc).

8. Was the fingerling delivery rejected? Yes No

If yes, why? Hatchery information

1. Hatchery name:

2. Staff representative:

3. Contact telephone number:

4. Have the fingerlings been purged prior to delivery? Yes No

5. Have the fingerlings had a salt bath prior to delivery? Yes No

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 69 6. Are there any contaminants with the fingerlings? (e.g. tadpoles, other fish species, insects, plant material) Yes No Fingerling details

a) Average size of fingerlings delivered Randomly select 20 fingerlings from the delivery and using metric callipers measure (in millimetres) each fingerling from the longest point of their tail to the end of their mouth. Record your data in the table below.

1 5 9 13 17

2 6 10 14 18

3 7 11 15 19

4 8 12 16 20

b) Actual number of fingerlings delivered This can be determined by using either of the methods in Appendix D. Record the information in the table below.

Species Sample 1 Sample 2 Average Estimated total

Alternatively, you may arrange to visit the hatchery supplying the fingerlings on the day of packing so that you see how many fish they are providing. This is beneficial to the stocking group as it saves on time and human resources and is also beneficial to the fish as they will be handled less. Such an arrangement will have to be agreed to by the hatchery. Other comments:

Stocking group representative signature:

Use either of the methods described below to determine the actual number of fingerlings delivered by the hatchery. 1. Count method

Materials • 2 x 20 L buckets • aerator (battery or 12 volt) with two separate lines and air stones • sieve or 1 L container • 1 x hand counter • 1 x hand sieve.

70 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Method 1. Three-quarters fill each 20 L bucket with water and place aerator in the water. 2. Fill sieve or container up to its brim with fingerlings and place them into one 20 L bucket. 3. Count out the fingerlings with the sieve in twos or threes into the other 20 L bucket. Use the handcounter while counting out the fingerlings. 4. Repeat the above procedure to calculate the average number of fingerlings per 1 L container. Use this number to multiply how many scoops are remaining with the sieve or container. 5. Do this once again.

2. Weight method*

Materials • scales • bucket • aerator • sieve or container • handcounter.

Method 1. Place a bucket half-filled with water and an aerator onto a set of accurate electronic scales. Set the scales to zero. 2. Scoop a number of fish into the bucket, read off and note the weight in grams. 3. Count the fish and note the number. 4. Repeat this procedure. 5. Using a calculator, divide the grams of fish by the number counted. This will give you a general weight of an individual fish. Using this number you can then multiply by the number of fish you have ordered and calculate the total amount of grams or kilograms needed to make up the order.

For example: A sample of fish weigh 510 grams. A count of the sample indicates 320 fish. Dividing 510 by 320 suggests an individual fish weighs 1.6 grams. If 10 000 fingerlings were ordered you should receive 16 000 grams (or 16 kilograms) of fingerlings.

* This method is probably less stressful to the fingerlings.

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 71 Appendix E—Hatcheries registered with DPI&F

Name Fish species Sunshine Coast Crayfish Producers Australian bass Silver perch Ross and Vicki Rickard Golden perch PS 1197 YANDINA QLD 4417 Tel: 5446 6319 Bundy Barra Australian bass Sleepy cod Stan and Robyn Moore Barcoo grunter Silver perch PO Box 1660 Barramundi Golden perch BUNDABERG QLD 4670 Tel: 4159 9666 Ausyfish Pty Ltd Australian bass Saratoga (southern) Bruce Sambell Golden perch Silver perch PO Box 324 Gudgeons Sleepy cod CHILDERS QLD 4660 Rainbows Tel: 4126 2226 Andrew Shaw Barramundi Murray cod 38 Cameron Road Golden perch Silver perch BURPENGARY QLD 4505 Mob: 0403 043 819 Bryan Hurst Golden perch Silver perch Kerriett MEANDARRA QLD 4422 Tel: 4665 6215 Granite Belt Fish Hatchery Golden perch Murray cod Geoff and Janette Donges Silver perch Box 11 SEVERNLEA QLD 4352 Tel: 4683 5283 Hanwood Fish Hatchery Australian bass Saratoga (southern) Max and Deirdre Cluff Barcoo grunter Silver perch MS 361 Barramundi Sleepy cod MURGON QLD 4605 Golden perch Sooty grunter Tel: 4168 1558 Murray cod HMC Pty Ltd Australian bass Bill and Bernas Proctor 82 Bourbong Street BUNDABERG QLD 4670 Tel: 4151 5425

72 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland Name Fish species Native Fish Breeders Golden perch Sooty grunter Carol Stables 16 Dunbar Street MOOROOBOOL QLD 4870 Tel: 4053 6089 Russell and Desley Manning Australian bass Mary River cod 385 Lake Macdonald Dr Golden perch Silver perch COOROY QLD 4563 Tel: 5447 7040 Donald Gilson Australian bass Saratoga (southern) 5 Neil Street Barramundi Silver perch BURNETT HEADS QLD 4670 Tel: 4159 4787 Woodridge State High School Golden perch Dave Allen Wembley Road WOODRIDGE QLD 4114 Tel: 3208 3555 Catherina Mehary Sleepy cod PO Box 139 WULGURU QLD 4811 Ken Cowden Barramundi GAWB and PA 147 Goodoon St GLADSTONE QLD 4680 Tel: 4972 9548 Leisa Krebs Saratoga (southern) Lot 3 Perkins Rd NEURUM QLD 4514 Tel: 5496 3657 Sunland FW Fish Hatchery Australian bass Saratoga (southern) Gwen and Richard Gilson Golden perch Silver perch 40 Gilson Road BOREEN POINT QLD 4565 Tel: 5485 3144 Betta Barra Tropical Fish Hatchery Barramundi Sooty grunter Mail Service 1318 QLD 4872 Tel: 4095 3824

Freshwater Stocking in Queensland 73 Name Fish species Queensland Native Fish Hatchery Australian bass Silver perch Dale and Lisa Cockerton Barramundi Sooty grunter P.O. Box 640 Golden perch Jade perch CHILDERS QLD 4660 Tel: 4126 1844 Mob: 0411 305 344 Leigh Oakley Australian bass Murray cod 10 Capri Court Barramundi Silver perch NOOSA HEADS QLD 4567 Mob: 0142 665 516 Bluewater Barramundi Barramundi PO Box 4 MOURILYAN QLD 4858 Tel: 4063 2455 Christine Pollard Barramundi PO Box 6262 MACKAY MAIL CENTRE QLD 4741 Tel: 4958 3360 Barramundi Blue Aquaculture Barramundi Barcoo grunter 1/45 Wansfell St, Picnic Bay Silver perch Sleepy cod Magnetic Island QLD 4819 Tel: 4777 2744 Redgate Fish Farm Australian bass Silver perch David Rose Golden perch 122 Redgate Road MURGON QLD 4605 Tel: 4168 1646 Mob: 0427 743 854 Barramundi Gardens Barramundi Tim and Gail Thiele PO Box 159 MT MOLLOY QLD 4871 Tel: 4094 1293

74 Freshwater Stocking in Queensland

PR07–2598