1 Part 1 Introduction

Fishing is one of the most popular recreational Victorian recreational fishers for recreational pursuits in , with more than 800,000 fisheries in the upper Victorians participating in fishing at least once catchment. a year (Tourism Victoria 1995). The recreational fishing sector (including support industries) In doing so it must: generates approximately 27,000 associated jobs ● ensure that the use and management of the and is estimated to contribute approximately fishery resource is consistent with the $1.265 billion per annum to the Victorian principles of ecological sustainability; economy (Unkles 1997). ● ensure that the management of the fishery is consistent with other conservation and A fisheries management plan is a public natural resource management aims of the document which clearly outlines future Department of Natural Resources and management directions and arrangements for Environment (DNRE) and other agencies recreational and/or commercial fishing for (such as Goulburn-Murray Water, Goulburn individual water-bodies or species within a Broken Catchment Management defined area. Authority); and As the Government agency responsible for ● develop guidelines for the resolution of fisheries, the role of Fisheries Victoria is to be issues between user groups. a lead advocate for fish habitat protection in The development of the GERFMP involves public waters and to manage recreational, direct participation by Victorian recreational commercial and traditional fisheries and fishers. It operates in an inclusive manner to commercial aquaculture in Victorian waters. ensure that the wider stakeholder groups are In doing so, Fisheries Victoria recognises and informed of progress and have every supports the need for protection of species opportunity to have input into the GERFMP. listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Development of the GERFMP was led by a (FFG) Act 1988 from the impacts of fishing and steering committee with strong representation other influences. from key stakeholder groups in the upper The primary focus of the Goulburn-Eildon Goulburn region. Region Fisheries Management Plan (GERFMP) is on the recreational fisheries of the region. Nevertheless, GERFMP also aims to influence 1.1 Partnerships Essential for and assist those engaged in biodiversity, water Delivering Outcomes and catchment management programs to In striving for effective fisheries management, improve the quality of fish habitats through the strengthening of partnerships between all their policies and actions. It also identifies the stakeholders is critical. need and opportunities for improving fish habitat and controlling noxious species. At a broad level, the fisheries management arrangements specified in the GERFMP will be The overall aim of the GERFMP is to achieve led by DNRE (Fisheries Victoria and Northern the best possible match between the fisheries Region). The inputs to environment, management objectives and the aspirations of biodiversity and land use plans and programs will be coordinated by DNRE in partnership

Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 2 with the Goulburn Broken Catchment For example, fisheries management is within the Management Authority (GBCMA).Water Government’s Energy and Resources portfolio, storage management plans will be coordinated while biodiversity, catchment management and by Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW). In water management are within the addition to input from these agencies, the Environment and Conservation portfolio. Victorian Recreational Fishing peak body representing the interests of Victorian Within the Environment and Conservation recreational fishers, VRFish, has also developed portfolio, habitat and environmental planning policies on native fish and salmonid fisheries outcomes are delivered through an integrated and environmental flows. framework of regional catchment strategies and catchment action plans (salinity, water), An important role of all agencies and key river health plans, bulk water entitlements, stakeholders will be facilitation of community streamflow management plans and Victoria’s involvement and information programs. whole of Government Biodiversity Strategy. This portfolio also includes the Flora and Specific projects will be developed on a Fauna Guarantee Implementation Plan collaborative basis, similar to the Recreational (FFGIP), addressing: Fishing Licence funded ‘Angler access and stream habitat restoration project’ being conducted in ● instream temperature profiles the Goulburn River by the GBCMA in ● flow patterns conjunction with DNRE. ● sedimentation While the main direct outcomes of fisheries ● removal of woody debris management plans are focused on the ● fish passage impediments sustainable use and allocation of fisheries ● threatened species actions resources, the health of aquatic ecosystems is fundamental to the sustainability of these As an overarching framework for aquatic resources. In addition, if not managed and environmental management, the Victorian conducted sensitively, activity associated with Government is currently developing a State fishing can have adverse impacts on the River Health Strategy (SRHS) to set the aquatic environment and instream ecosystems directions for all the major management on which the health of the fishery depends. functions that affect the health of rivers and their associated floodplains and wetlands. The Accordingly, fisheries management plans must SRHS will: identify environmental issues and ● identify environmental, recreational, cultural, impediments, and recommend the appropriate social and economic assets for the State’s management responses. waters, and the current condition of the asset and its comparative community value; Once identified, these issues and their importance to fish and fisheries form ● identify processes threatening these values important inputs to a number of Victoria’s and the severity of the risk involved; natural resource planning processes. ● identify opportunities for restoration of any degraded values and requirements for In understanding the development of the restoration; GERFMP, a clear understanding of the ● set broad priorities for action; and relationships between Victoria’s resource management frameworks, and the linkages ● identify the key specific actions required between management planning processes, are and their overall priority (for example if both important. flow is a threat, then a streamflow management plan may be required; if the threat is increased incidence of algal blooms, then a nutrient management strategy will be needed).

Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 3

More detailed catchment based waterway There are a number of other documents that health action plans (WHAPs) based on the form part of the strategic planning framework SRHS will be developed by each Catchment affecting the Goulburn River region. These Management Authority (CMA). include: Nationally based Actions under the FFGIP and the WHAPs will 1. Draft Murray-Darling Basin Commission deliver many of the desirable fisheries Native Fish Management Plan outcomes identified in the GERFMP, but are separate to direct actions under the GERFMP. 2. National Fishing Code of Practice The habitat and environmental issues State based identified in each of the issue-specific action 1. State Environment Protection Policy plans, including fisheries management plans, (Waters of Victoria) will be integrated and articulated in each 2. Draft Heritage Rivers Plan WHAP as river health objectives for the major Catchment based river reaches within each catchment. 1. Goulburn-Broken Catchment Management A reporting program that will enable Strategy monitoring and achievement of both resource 2. Fishing Tourism Action Plan 2000 - 2003 condition and implementation targets in these and Regional Tourism Strategy processes can be included in the WHAP 3. Draft Waterway Strategy for Goulburn- framework to illustrate how the issues Broken Catchment identified in the GERFMP are being addressed.

Planning framework

Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 4

Locality based ● public authorities (such as catchment and 1. Lake Eildon Storage Management Plan water managers) must have regard to 2. Lake Nagambie Storage Management Plan relevant fisheries management plans and, (Water Quality and Biodiversity Strategy) before taking any action that is inconsistent 3. Upper Goulburn Recreational Waterways with a fisheries management plan, must Strategy consult with the Secretary of DNRE. 4. Stream Flow Management Plan In accordance with this framework, guidelines for the development of the Goulburn-Eildon 5. King Parrot Creek Stream Flow Region Fisheries Management Plan were Management Plan published in the Government Gazette on 13 6. Goulburn Broken Water Quality Strategy May 1999 (See Section 4.4: Appendix C). 7. Lake Eildon National Park Management Plan Victorian Government policies on the 8. Shire planning schemes stocking of native and salmonid fish, translocation of fish, and biodiversity 1.2 Planning Framework conservation are also important parts of the framework for the GERFMP. The Fisheries Act 1995 (the Act) and fishing regulations provide Victoria’s framework for The guidelines and Part 3 of the Act describe sustainable use of living aquatic resources, the scope, aim, process and key features of protection of fish habitats, promotion of the GERFMP. In addition to these legal sustainable quality recreational fishing requirements, the GERFMP must be opportunities, facilitation of access for a range structured so that key fishery attributes are of uses, and community involvement in described, and Goals and Objectives are fisheries management. provided to guide future management. As set out in the first objective of the Act, the These Goals and Objectives are a blend of over-riding principle in the management of ecological need and the aspirations of the Victoria’s fisheries is that they should be users of the fishery. This blend forms the managed on an ecologically sustainable basis. vision for the future of the fishery. As such, the GERFMP is jointly ‘owned’ by all that Throughout the GERFMP, the concept of have an interest in the resource. sustainability of fisheries is stated or implied and refers to the principles of Ecologically The Fisheries Co-Management Council has Sustainable Development1 as they apply to overseen the Fisheries Management Planning fisheries. process and has ensured that the planning process has conformed to the requirements of Part 3 of the Act sets out the legislative the Act and the guidelines published in the framework for developing inland fisheries Government Gazette. management plans. Under Part 3, ● the purpose of a fisheries management plan The appropriateness of the GERFMP’s is to specify policies and strategies for the provisions and the level of success achieved management of the fisheries on an will be measured by the degree to which overall ecologically sustainable basis, having regard and specific Goals and Objectives are met. It to recreational, commercial, traditional and will be necessary for managers and anglers to non-consumptive uses of the resources; and monitor this collectively on an ongoing basis. The purpose of the GERFMP is to identify required actions. 1 Ecologically Sustainable Development (or ESD) is a dynamic concept that seeks to integrate short and long- term economic, social and environmental effects into decision-making

Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 5 As more information on the fishery comes to 1.3 Goals and Objectives light, management requirements will change and new needs will be identified. Also, the The goals, objectives, and policies in the aspirations of anglers and fishing traditions will GERFMP encourage maximisation of the continue to evolve and subtly change over time. opportunities provided by the fish resources of For these reasons it will be necessary to review the upper Goulburn River catchment. and update the GERFMP from time to time. The goal of the GERFMP is: Two fundamental factors that determine what to achieve the best possible match between the is possible in terms of fisheries management in fisheries management arrangements and the mid Goulburn River are the current Bulk Victorian recreational fishers’ aspirations for Entitlement and related water release practices, the fisheries in the upper Goulburn region. and the water temperature regime that results from the low-level off-take of water from Lake In so doing, it must: Eildon during the irrigation season. ● ensure that the use and management of the fishery resource is consistent with the Both factors severely limit the scope for principles of ecological sustainability; restoration of healthy native fish populations ● ensure that the management of the fishery in this part of the system. Both are also among is consistent with other conservation and a number of potentially threatening processes natural resource management aims of the listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Department of Natural Resources and 1988 affecting aquatic ecosystems in Victoria. Environment (DNRE) and other agencies Both factors also conflict with the protection (Goulburn-Murray Water and the of beneficial uses of Victoria’s public waters Goulburn Broken Catchment Management and the intent of the State Environment Authority); and Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria). ● develop guidelines for the resolution of While the GERFMP recognises these issues between user groups. impediments and threatening processes, the The objectives of the GERFMP are: fisheries management strategies and actions ● to manage the fisheries of the Goulburn/ contained in the GERFMP have been Eildon area to provide a wide variety of developed in the context of current water fishing experiences with year-round fishing management arrangements. opportunities for both native and Major changes in the fishery in the future will introduced species; act as triggers for reviewing the GERFMP. ● to manage with a view to developing the Examples may include: fisheries to their full sustainable potential; ● changes to water flows, temperatures and ● to promote improvements of aquatic and release patterns; riparian habitat in relation to a wide range ● implementation of Flora and Fauna of threatening processes; Guarantee Act 1988 Action Statements that ● to promote improvements to the address threats to aquatic ecosystems; and/or opportunities for improved production or ● the provisions of the revised State access to target fish species; Environment Protection Policy (Waters of ● to provide for the conservation and Victoria). enhancement of recreational fishing target species and other freshwater fauna within the system;

Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 6

● to involve relevant resource managers in the enforcement. The limitations of fish habitat fisheries management process and consult/ and other external factors strongly influence negotiate with them in relation to possible what these tools can achieve in any water. positive outcomes for the fisheries resources and fish habitats; However, given the range of fish habitats covered by the GERFMP, it should be possible ● to provide for the positive input of resource to meet most of the wide range of aspirations users in the fisheries management processes that anglers have for inland fisheries in this for the area; area. The GERFMP sets out the management ● to facilitate processes for improvement of objectives and current management access and facilities within the GERFMP arrangements based on previous consultation area; and primarily with recreational fishers. This was ● to achieve the best possible match between seen as a logical starting point for the the fisheries management arrangements and GERFMP. While its form and content are Victorian recreational fishers’ aspirations largely determined by the Fisheries Act 1995, the for the fisheries in these waters. details of the final version were derived from responses to a discussion paper circulated for The fisheries management tools that may be public comment prior to the writing of the used to implement the GERFMP include fish GERFMP. stocking, fishing regulations, habitat restoration, fisheries research and assessment, education and

Figure 1: A map of the upper Goulburn River catchment showing the major tributaries and major storages. Urban centres and highways are shown. The inset shows the location of the catchment within Victoria Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 7 1.4 Background 11.4%) to the gross state expenditure on recreational fishing. In terms of activity, the The upper Goulburn River catchment includes North East region, of which the upper the Goulburn River and all inflowing Goulburn catchment is a substantial part, tributaries, upstream of Goulburn Weir. The attracted 17.6% of all recreational fishing area relevant to the GERFMP also includes a activity in Victoria (Unkles 1997). number of storages and impoundments such as Lake Nagambie, the Eildon Pondage and By far the most popular species sought by Lake Eildon. The catchment area extends from recreational anglers in this region were brown the Great Dividing Ranges in the south-east to and rainbow trout, with over 70% of the Murray Plains in the west (Figure 1). recreational fishers interviewed in the area identifying these species as a preferred catch The major population centres in this target. Murray cod and redfin were also catchment include Mansfield, Marysville, identified as preferred species with blackfish Eildon, Alexandra, Yea, Seymour, Kilmore, being sought by a smaller number of anglers. Broadford and Nagambie. These centres, together with the rural agricultural activities The GERFMP will provide a means by which throughout the catchment, rely on the the fisheries of the upper Goulburn River can Goulburn River and its storages as a provider be managed in a manner that ensures that of quality water. The catchment comprises these fisheries and associated aquatic only 2% of the surface area of the Murray- biological resources are utilised and developed Darling Basin but generates 11% of its water in an effective, efficient and ecologically resources (UGWA 1998). sustainable manner. The catchment contains some of Victoria’s, The GERFMP is consistent with the objectives and possibly ’s, most valuable of the Fisheries Act 1995 and with the principles waterways and water resources. The natural of the Victorian Inland Fisheries Strategy, landscape and general condition of the Ecologically Sustainable Development and waterways attract tens of thousands of visitors Conservation of Biodiversity. to the region annually, regardless of the season. The GERFMP also notes the existence of the Recreational fishing is one of the most statutory requirements and contractual popular leisure pursuits in the region. In 1997, arrangements of Goulburn-Murray Water and the North East contributed $118.8 million (or Southern Hydro.

Part 1: Introduction Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 8

Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 9 Part 2 Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives

The area of the upper Goulburn catchment sedimentary rocks such as mudstone, slate, covered by the GERFMP was categorised into shale and sandstone. Climate is montane with a number of specific management units, these mean annual rainfall over 700 mm. being: Streams of this zone are primarily in their ● Lake Eildon Tributary Streams mountain tract and are actively degrading and ● Lake Eildon characteristically occupy steep walled ‘V’ ● Eildon Pondage shaped valleys. Outcrops of rock, loosened ● Goulburn River from Eildon Pondage to boulders and rock fragments are present in the Seymour valley walls, and boulders and pebbles in the ● Goulburn River Tributary Streams: Eildon stream bed. Stream morphology includes small Pondage to Seymour to moderate sized waterfalls and rocky cascades in the upper reaches with more classical runs ● Goulburn River from Seymour to Nagambie and pools in the lower sections of the zone. ● Goulburn River Tributary Streams: Often the valley has a gently sloping spur on Seymour to Nagambie one side and a steep, undercut valley wall ● Lake Nagambie opposite due to lateral corrosion. Deeper pools ● Off stream Wetlands and Billabongs

2.1 Lake Eildon Tributary Streams The Lake Eildon catchment covers an area of approximately 3,900 km2, which includes the upper Goulburn River catchment and the basins of the Big, Howqua and Delatite rivers (Figure 2). Around 75% of the water yield of this catchment originates from the high rainfall southern section which, in contrast, represents only about one third of the total catchment area. Much of this southern section is mountainous and heavily forested, with a narrow, partly cleared floodplain in the lower reaches. The southern tributaries all rise in similar country, typcally high (>500 m) mountains comprised principally of Palaeozoic Figure 2: The upper Goulburn River and major tributaries above Lake Eildon.

Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 10 are often present at these sites. Typically, the well-forested catchment with the riparian streams have irregular flows due to the vegetation dominated by tea tree, ferns and substrate channel roughness. The catchments sedges. The stream is small and shallow with are predominantly well-vegetated and riparian generally unbroken flow. Substrate includes cover is generally present on both banks. gravel and silt. Woody debris is present and forms some small weirs in places. The remaining 25% of the water yield for the catchment is derived from the drier northern From Mount Stirling to Mirrimbah the stream sections where the plains and foothills have rapidly descends in altitude. This section is generally been cleared for grazing. The still well-vegetated but due to increased stream temperate climate provides a mean annual gradient and velocities, the substrate is mostly rainfall of over 700mm. large boulders and bedrock with some areas of coarser sediment. Water flow is irregular and Northern tributary streams have a different large pools are rare. form to the southern tributaries. They rise in the granitic Strathbogie Ranges before flowing Downstream of Mirrimbah, the Delatite through low, sedimentary sandstone hills to undergoes a further change, and by Merrijig Eildon. Streams within this part of the has entered its valley tract and flows through a catchment are relatively shallow, consisting of relatively broad valley to Lake Eildon. In this pool and riffle sequences with rock and gravel section, the stream form is the classic pool, substrates. They are largely unregulated riffle, run sequence interspersed with although there is some water abstraction for occasional bedrock bars. Pools increase in size domestic and stock requirements along the and depth downstream. The substrate is lower reaches. comprised of boulders, pebbles and coarse sediment. Fine silt and detritus are confined to Due to the concentration of intensive land the slower flowing areas and backwaters. use and population, waters draining this area, Riparian vegetation is mostly cleared and including the Brankeet, Woolshed and Merton replaced with exotics such as willows. Some Creeks, tend to carry higher loads of nutrients, remnant native vegetation is still present in sediment and bacteriological indicators. patches. The watershed in this area is extensively The township of Mansfield is the largest cleared and principally used for grazing. regional centre in the north of the catchment B. Goulburn River area, with many smaller, more isolated The upper reaches of the Goulburn River flow townships such as Howqua, Jamieson and through well-forested catchment and riparian Kevington in the southern foothills. vegetation dominated by tea tree, ferns and Highly regarded areas for camping, prospecting, sedges. The stream has a boulder and gravel snow skiing, four-wheel drive motoring and substrate and shallow pools. Woody debris is fishing are found within this region. present and in some places forms small weirs when it covers the width of the stream. Downstream of Woods Point the stream 2.1.1 Geomorphology increases in size, but maintains the pool, run, A. riffle sequence. The substrate is mostly The Delatite River rises in the steep hills comprised of boulders, pebbles and coarse behind Mount Buller and Mount Stirling. sediment although fine sand, silt and detritus The stream profile has three distinct sections are present. The finer material is confined to that influence the stream morphology. These the slower flowing areas and backwaters. Pools consist of the upper reaches above Mount generally get larger and deeper downstream. Stirling and Mount Buller, the area from Riparian vegetation is mostly native and has Mt Stirling to Mirrimbah, and the area from been cleared on the occasional wider river plain Mirrimbah to Lake Eildon. The very upper and near the sites of the old towns. Willows, reaches of the stream flow through blackberries and cape broom are common. Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 11

C . Howqua and Jamieson Rivers E. Northern tributaries: Ford Creek/Ancona The Howqua and Jamieson Rivers are similar Valley/Brankeet Creek to the Goulburn River. All of these streams are These streams rise in lower altitude hills and in the mountain tract and are beginning to have relatively small catchments compared undergo transition to its valley tract as they with the southern tributaries. The streams have reach Lake Eildon. As the valley floor widens, a general pool and riffle sequence but are some land clearing has taken place on the primarily small and shallow. The upper gentler slopes. Land use in these areas is reaches of the catchments have patches of typically grazing with some small hobby-farm forest and the streams have some areas of holdings. Riparian vegetation in the upper native riparian vegetation. However, much of sections is native, commonly tea tree on both the catchment and stream banks have been sides of the stream. On some of the cleared cleared. Riparian vegetation is restricted to a flats and particularly along the lower reaches, discontinuous band along the banks and often only one bank is well-vegetated, and willows and other introduced vegetation are introduced species, primarily willows and common. The stream substrate is generally blackberries, are common. comprised of sand and gravel, most of which has been introduced into the stream from Some bank erosion is present in the lower part corrasion of the stream banks. Rock bars are of the in the Tobacco Flat area. present in some locations. Some sections of D. Big River the streams are incised into the floodplain. The Big River is still in the mountain tract Flows are variable and can be very low in the and its valley is narrow and deep where it flows drier months. into Lake Eildon. The catchment is well- forested, and native vegetation is present on 2.1.2 Water management both sides of the stream. The extreme upper The upper Goulburn River and tributaries reaches of the stream, above Stockmans above Lake Eildon are unregulated for water Reward, are small with boulder, pebble and supply purposes. However, some streamflow gravel substrate. Some instream vegetation is barriers are employed for discharge monitoring also present and the flow is unbroken. and off stream diversions. A concrete weir measures flow in the upper Goulburn River 6 km Downstream of Stockman’s Reward the river upstream of Jamieson on the Woods Point Road has a bedrock, boulder and sand/gravel (SI 405219, Goulburn River at Doughertys; substrate with silt areas in the slower flowing annual average flow of 375,000 ML). sections and backwaters. Numerous small (<1 m) cascades are present over bedrock bars A Goulburn-Murray Water private diversion or from woody debris dams. Generally the licence allows extraction of approximately 130 stream is much wider than deep. The pools are ML for irrigation and domestic and stock use generally shallow (<1 m). each year. The type and nature of diversion structure is available in individual customer Downstream of Enoch’s Point to Lake Eildon, files, but is not routinely recorded in the river develops into a larger stream. Goulburn-Murray Water entitlement databases. Substrate is principally river boulders and Tributaries to the upper Goulburn River gravel with some bedrock bars present. Deep system include Ford Creek and the Delatite, pools are present where undercutting of the Howqua, Jamieson, Big and Taponga Rivers. slope has occurred. Woody debris is present Licensed extraction for domestic and stock use and forms log jams in some areas. Fine gravel, occurs from almost all of the tributary sand, silt and detritus are found where the waterways. Entitlements of more than 100 ML/ current is slow. Before its with Lake yr are licensed on Boggy Creek, the Delatite Eildon the Big River is a relatively large, deep (many areas >1 m) stream.

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 12

River and the . In some cases, The GERFMP acknowledges the need for extraction facilities may exist on pools formed carefully planned trout exclusion trials aimed by streamflow barriers (such as a diversion weir at protecting the threatened spotted tree frog for snow making water supply). in Whites Creek, a tributary of the . It also recognises and supports the trout The Howqua and Big Rivers are declared exclusion works undertaken to protect the Heritage Rivers under the Heritage Rivers Act barred galaxid in small headwater streams in 1992. Licensed diversion entitlements exist on the Goulburn catchment area, such as the the two rivers, but the Act prohibits the Morning Star, Raspberry and Godfrey creeks. construction of new barriers to passage of aquatic fauna and new diversions unless 2.1.4 Access and facilities approved by the Governor in Council. Access varies with each stream but in general most of the lower reaches of these streams have 2.1.3 Environmental issues reasonable access at reserves, road crossings Environmental issues in this zone include: and tracks. Access becomes more difficult in ● infestation of blackberries and cape broom, the extreme upper reaches where it is restricted which has occurred in many reaches in this to creek crossings and some reserves. section and is limiting riparian diversity and restricting angler access; The Delatite River has some bridge crossings ● willows, which require control in some between the weir and Merrijig, and has several areas such as the lower reaches of the access points upstream to Mirrimbah. Goulburn River upstream of Jamieson; The Howqua River has very good 4WD access ● effects from past gravel extraction to the via the Howqua River Road which joins the lower reaches of the Delatite River; river at several places including Running ● ensuring that existing and future Creek, Tobacco Flat, Sheepyard Flat and residential, tourism, agricultural, mining Tunnel Bend. and other developments in the zone do not adversely affect water quality and quantity; The Jamieson River has access in the town of Jamieson and for a short way along the Licola ● uncontrolled stock access to the lower Road. Access is then restricted to the camping reaches of rivers; areas at Granny’s Flat and Wren’s Flat and to ● the presence of the nationally endangered some 4WD access tracks. species barred galaxias, Galaxias fuscus, which is confined to small headwater areas The Goulburn River has many access points in a few tributaries of the Goulburn and from Jamieson up to Woods Point including Howqua rivers; numerous spots through Kevington and Gaffneys Creek to Woods Point. Beyond ● the presence of the nationally endangered spotted tree frog, Litoria spenceri, which Woods Point, access by 4WD is available to occurs in parts of the Taponga, Howqua, some Goulburn River headwater locations Jamieson, upper Goulburn, Black and such as . Snake rivers; The Big River has very good access from the ● the presence of Macquarie perch which Big River Road up to Enoch Point. The upper have been stocked into the lower reaches of reaches of the Big River have very good access the Howqua River and may be present in via numerous campsites downstream from the lower reaches of other Eildon tributaries Stockman’s Reward. Road crossings and tracks due to movement from the Lake Eildon give access to other fishable streams in this Macquarie perch population; and area such as the Torbreck River. ● the Howqua River Heritage River status is based on both recreational fishing and spotted treefrog conservation values.

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 13

The northern tributaries in this section The Goulburn River offers reasonable access to (Ford, Ancona, Brankeet, etc) can be accessed the angler but fishing quality can change due with permission over private property or at to variable spawning success each year. Brown road crossings. trout average around 220 g with some fish up to 1.8 kg. Rainbow trout are generally smaller. 2.1.5 Current fishery These waters are valued most highly by anglers The Big River is an important trout nursery as trout fishing streams and as spawning stream for Lake Eildon with extensive brown streams that contribute to annual recruitment and rainbow trout spawning in the upper of brown trout, in particular to Lake Eildon. reaches. It contains small rainbow trout This applies particularly to the Big, Delatite, around 200 g and brown trout to 2 kg. Small Goulburn, Howqua and Jamieson Rivers. redfin and river blackfish also occur in the Throughout the length of most of these Lake lower reaches. Some fishing for brown trout is Eildon tributaries, anglers take abundant small undertaken via boat access from the lake. trout of around 200 g, with occasional larger trout up to 2 kg. To varying degrees in the 2.1.6 Specific objectives and fishery lower reaches of all of the Lake Eildon management strategies tributaries, anglers also target Murray cod, The GERFMP recognises that most of the golden perch, blackfish, redfin, carp, roach Eildon tributaries are primarily high use trout and tench. fisheries and therefore require specific management actions. The Delatite River holds many small rainbow and brown trout in its upper reaches even in The goals for the fisheries in the Lake Eildon drought conditions. The section of river from tributaries focus on: Merrijig to the Jamieson road bridge holds ● continued and improved opportunities for quality brown trout and smaller numbers of trout fishing based on naturally rainbow trout but numbers may be rapidly reproducing, wild trout populations in reduced by excessive angling pressure. Murray healthy upland streams; cod, redfin and freshwater spiny crayfish are ● enjoyment of unspoiled and peaceful targeted by anglers in the lower reaches. surroundings; Years of low water levels also impact severely ● the opportunity to take trout regularly and on this section and fish kills can occur. The large trout occasionally; and section from the Jamieson road bridge to Lake ● the development of mixed species Eildon varies in angling quality from year to opportunities in downstream reaches. year with carp moving into this area in years The management objectives and strategies for of low flow. the fisheries in these waters have been The Jamieson River is a popular trout stream developed accordingly. that contains roughly equal numbers of small Wherever possible, anglers’ concerns about rainbow and brown trout (up to 200 g) as well trout numbers and the impacts of fishing will as a few larger fish. Some small redfin and be addressed through habitat improvement river blackfish are also caught in the lower and fishing regulations. Although acute reaches. An annual spawning run of natural events such as drought and floods can Macquarie perch was known to take place in have negative impacts on trout fisheries, there this river when the species was more prevalent is often nothing practical that can be done to in the lake. offset such effects. Stocking trout in these The upper sections of the Howqua River streams (for instance to compensate for provide good trout fishing for both brown and drought impacts) has not been considered an rainbow trout with most fish generally less option in recent years, on the basis that than 350 g. recruitment is best left to the wild trout

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 14 population. Trout populations have shown a of exotic fish such as carp and roach and of remarkable capacity to recover when exotic vegetation such as blackberries. conditions after such events recover. Management options therefore reflect the need The challenge for managers is to ensure that to be flexible and specific to the individual man-made impacts do not compound the fisheries and should: effects of natural events. Management ● manage the stream fisheries with arrangements that can be adapted for the acknowledgment of the high angler use of situation, similar to current game bird (duck) some areas of the streams; management, may be appropriate for sections ● assess the likely impacts of reduced or zero of these streams. For example, when trout bag limit areas to counter the effect of populations are low in times of drought, angler pressure on some sections of the lowering bag limits to preserve the stock from fisheries and review bag limits accordingly; over fishing may be considered. When stocks ● recognise the linkage between trout stocks recover the bag limits would then be increased. in Lake Eildon and the fishery in the lower The fisheries management objectives for these to mid reaches of these streams; waters recognise the importance of many of ● manage intensively fished streams to spread them as popular trout fishing streams and as trout catches across the entire season; spawning streams that contribute to the trout ● protect spawning trout from angler and populations that support the popular trout waterflow management; fishery in Lake Eildon. ● support the creation and development, The specific fisheries management objectives where practical and compatible with the are to: existing fishery, of alternative recreational ● manage populations of rainbow and brown fishing opportunities, e.g. create a trout so the number and quality (size and recreational fishery for Murray cod in lower condition) of fish best match angler reaches of the tributary streams; aspirations across the entire season; ● educate anglers on alternative angling ● ensure that the level of use does not opportunities within the management threaten the natural sustainability of the area, such as blackfish, redfin, carp, roach trout populations; and and tench; ● ● cater for as wide a range of recreational manage the sustainable take of freshwater angling opportunities and angling styles as spiny crayfish; possible within the confines of fishery ● protect and, where possible, assist sustainability and maintenance of restoration of the Macquarie perch recreational and conservation values. population; The major impediments to improved ● protect and, where possible, restore stream recreational fisheries in these streams include: habitats, including physical structure, riparian vegetation, water quality and flows; ● the high levels of visitor usage, particularly in areas that are more accessible and during and holiday periods, and the resulting impacts ● minimise the impacts of carp and reduce on the fishing experience; the numbers of carp, roach and tench. ● high summer water temperatures and low The management strategies to meet the flows in many of the streams affecting the fisheries management objectives and address behaviour, growth, survival and the issues listed include: productivity of trout in particular; and ● maximising trout recruitment via ● excessive nutrient and sediment loads, protection of spawning trout such as erosion, heavily modified or absent riparian maintaining a winter closed season for trout; vegetation in some areas and the impacts

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 15

● managing trout harvest in respect to lake surface area at full supply level is 13,750 conditions such as maintaining a daily bag Ha with a shoreline of some 515 km and a limit specific to seasonal conditions and maximum depth of 76.2 m. trout standing stocks in high use locations, and regularly reviewing the effectiveness of Within a 10 km zone around the lake, there are this strategy and modifying to suit; two main urban centres; Mansfield to the north-east and Eildon to the south-west. A ● developing alternative fisheries to encourage number of small urban centres also exist the utilisation of carp, and actively around the lake and include Bonnie Doon, encouraging fishing activities and Goughs Bay, Howqua and Jamieson. The major management programs aimed at controlling land use in the area is cattle and sheep grazing the impacts of carp; and forestry. ● protecting vulnerable or endangered species: maintaining appropriate controls on the The lake is a very popular place for a number taking of freshwater spiny crayfish; of recreational pursuits including sailing, acknowledging and supporting water skiing, house-boating and camping as conservation work for spotted tree frog and well as fishing. barred galaxias; and fully protecting Macquarie perch and actively encouraging 2.2.1 Geomorphology anglers to recognise and avoid harming this The landform around Lake Eildon reflects the and other threatened aquatic species; weathering of massive rocks which has ● promoting habitat restoration/ produced deep valleys and a drainage pattern rehabilitation: instigating, undertaking, of closely spaced first order streams. These supporting or encouraging habitat streams eventually flow into the larger valleys restoration projects; of the Goulburn and Delatite Rivers. The impoundment of the Goulburn River and ● developing special management subsequent flooding of these valleys has arrangements for areas where high fishing intensity early in the season diminishes catch rates later in the season; and ● encouraging the development of stream flow management plans for all tributaries. For further information refer to Part 3, Action Plan Research and Performance Indicators

2.2 Lake Eildon Lake Eildon (Figure 3), situated approximately 140 km north east of Melbourne, is Victoria’s most popular inland boating and fishing destination. The lake was formed in 1927 by the damming of the Goulburn River immediately downstream of its junction with the Delatite River. The first stage, initially known as the Sugarloaf Reservoir, had a capacity of 377,450 ML. The second stage was completed in 1955 and increased the capacity to 3,392,073 ML, making it the second largest water storage for irrigation in Victoria. The

Figure 3. Lake Eildon.

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 16 produced a narrow lake with several inlets or 2.2.3 Environmental issues ‘arms’ and many bays. The two main arms are The rise and fall of the storage water level is the flooded Delatite and Goulburn River valleys. the main factor that drives the quantity and quality of available habitat for fish in the lake. In the lower reaches of the major inflowing When its water levels are reduced, fish become streams, the flooding of the extensive concentrated in certain areas of the lake, floodplains of the river valleys has created a making them vulnerable to overfishing and generally flat bottom profile for the lake. high water temperatures. The refilling phase Depending on the lake level, these areas may can also cause problems for the fishery by appear in the storage as shallow flats. Steeper resuspending sediments that contain nutrients banks and narrow ’V’ shaped valleys occur at and in some cases heavy metals. the heads of the gullies where the water height is above the level of the drowned valley floor. The high sediment and nutrient loads of some The underlying sandstones are exposed on the inflowing streams are high priorities for steeper banks due to the erosion of the topsoil. remedial action. Topsoil, overlain with silt, has remained on the flats and more gently sloping areas of the lake Some concern has been expressed regarding floor. The lake is narrow and seldom exceeds mercury levels in fish throughout Lake Eildon. 2 km in width. The surrounds of the lake Further monitoring is required to quantify include a mix of cleared and forested land. any risks. Blue-green algae blooms, which warranted 2.2.2 Water management public notification, have occurred in the lake Lake Eildon supplies water to irrigation areas on two occasions in the past five years. and urban systems. The storage also provides flood control for the Goulburn and Murray The illegal removal of wood from the lakebed River systems and has hydro-electricity is prevalent and has adverse effects on habitat generation facilities connected to the Victorian availability. electricity distribution network. The capacity of the storage is approximately double the 2.2.4 Access and facilities average annual inflow. Access to the lake is generally very good with numerous boat ramps and vehicle access A Bulk Water Entitlement (Eildon–Goulburn Weir) points. However, boat access via the concrete Conversion Order 1995 defines the storage and use ramps around the Delatite, Goughs Bay, of water in Lake Eildon and the wider Goulburn Bonnie Doon and Jamieson arms may be River system. The Order demands that water constrained by low water levels. When lake extracted from the Goulburn system be used to levels are low, boat access becomes restricted to satisfy the following primary entitlements: only a few formed concrete ramps mainly in ● domestic and stock allowances and water the Eildon area, including Jerusalem Creek and rights within the Goulburn component of the Eildon Boat Harbour. the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District; ● licences supplied from the waterway; Illegal vehicular access occurs across the dry ● domestic and stock supplies within the East lakebed during times of low water. The recent Loddon, West Loddon and Normanville low-water condition (1999-2000) has permitted Waterworks Districts; the lengthening of ramps including Jerusalem Creek and Eildon State Park. Informal illegal ● sales water; boat ramps are also often used around the lake ● additional supplies; and depending on water levels. ● other bulk entitlement orders within the system. This entitlement is discussed further in Section 2.4.2 Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 17

Boat fuel is available from floating barges at target these fish and the Big River arm is a the Eildon Boat Harbour and Jerusalem Creek popular area for this pursuit. Bank fishing for at all water levels and at the Bonnie Doon arm salmonids with lure, fly and bait is also when the water level is suitable. popular, especially when the water is rising over the flats in late winter and spring. 2.2.5 Current fishery Lake Eildon is classified as a mixed fishery Trout fishing declines in the summer months although trout and redfin are probably the when the trout move deeper to avoid the warm most popular and sought after species. Redfin surface waters. Those anglers wishing to catch captures are commonly 1 kg or better and trout at this time use appropriate methods brown trout to 3 kg or more are not uncommon. such as down-rigging and deep bait fishing. Lower numbers of rainbow trout, which rarely In the warmer months of the year, many exceed 1.5 kg are also taken. Carp, goldfish, anglers target redfin. This species is very Macquarie perch, tench, river blackfish, golden popular with anglers and they use a variety of perch and Murray cod have also been reported techniques including bait, trolling and lure from various parts of the lake. casting. Apart from carp, redfin would be the Stocking of salmonids in the lake was halted fish most likely to be caught by the holiday or in 1991 as the results of stocking trials at that occasional angler, and the species is therefore time indicated that stocked trout contributed very important in the Lake Eildon angling very little to anglers’ catches. The fishery now experience. Redfin up to 2 kg are regularly relies on natural recruitment of both brown taken from the lake but most would be less and rainbow trout from the numerous streams than 400 g. Quality redfin fishing relies on entering the lake. Native fish stocking has anglers detecting schools of the larger fish, continued throughout this period. Some hence the more successful anglers are usually minor stocking of adult Macquarie perch boat based. Redfin fishing in Lake Eildon translocated from Lake Dartmouth has also varies considerably between years. occurred in recent years. Murray cod and golden perch are also present The first privately sponsored stocking occurred in Lake Eildon and are generally considered in December 1999 when 200,000 rainbow trout summer species. Murray cod were highly fingerlings were stocked under the Rex Hunt sought in the early 1990s when the fishing FutureFish Foundation and the Eildon Action media contained favourable reviews of the cod Plan. This group also sponsored the release of fishing offered in the lake. The number of 48,500 golden perch fry and 25,000 Murray anglers targeting cod is suspected to have cod fry into Lake Eildon during 2001. decreased since this time and is currently thought to be relatively low. However, cod are Lake Eildon anglers practice many versions of regularly taken from the lake, particularly in the sport, and techniques employed in the the Delatite Arm. The number of anglers storage include bait, coarse, fly and lure fishing specifically targeting golden perch is also both from the bank and from boats. thought to be relatively low at present, despite fish surveys indicating the presence of Lake Eildon is open to fishing for salmonids relatively high numbers of golden perch up to all year round. The lake has a varied reputation 3 kg (average weight just below 1.5 kg). regarding salmonids. It produces a mixture of small trout and some relatively large, well- The lake contains large populations of carp conditioned fish. Brown trout are a more and roach. Coarse fishing anglers often target common capture than rainbow trout. The these species. larger trout are targeted annually during the winter. Trolling is an accepted method to

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 18

2.2.6 Specific objectives and fishery ● natural brown trout and rainbow trout management strategies recruitment (from the inflowing streams) The goal for the fishery in Lake Eildon is to: that is inconsistent from year to year, and may be significantly diminished because of develop and maintain a year-round mixed habitat degradation in the catchment and species fishery, in particular for brown trout, further diminished during years of low rainbow trout, redfin, Murray cod and winter-spring rainfall; and golden perch. ● possible impacts of undesirable species of Two specific objectives identified by angler fish (eg carp) both in the lake and in groups and related business interests are the spawning areas in the inflowing streams. improvement of the trout fishery, and the development of fisheries for golden perch and The major impediments to improving the Murray cod. Specific trout angler objectives fisheries for native fish are: range from the continued opportunity to take ● the lack of knowledge on limiting factors wild brown trout in excess of 5 kg to regular for native fish in the storage; catches of trout irrespective of size. ● the lack of, or inadequate, natural recruitment of Murray cod and golden perch; The specific fisheries management objectives ● that suitable physical habitat structure is are to: either limited or exposed during periods of ● increase the knowledge base on the Lake low water level; Eildon fishery to assist in management of the fishery; ● the large numbers of fish required to establish and maintain stocking-based ● maintain and enhance brown trout and fisheries in this large water at high water rainbow trout populations to provide a year levels; and round trout fishery; ● possible inter-specific and intra-specific ● develop fisheries for Murray cod and stresses imposed by competition for food golden perch, and determine appropriate and habitat at low water levels. stocking strategies; ● encourage the taking of redfin, carp, roach The management strategies to meet the and tench; fisheries management objectives and address ● protect the Macquarie perch population; the issues listed include: ● maintaining an appropriate daily trout bag ● improve the understanding of anglers’ limit and the opportunity to fish for trout objectives, catch rates and satisfaction in year round; relation to the Lake Eildon fisheries; ● investigating the annual recruitment of ● improve habitat suitability for both adult brown trout and rainbow trout from the and recently-recruited or stocked trout and Eildon catchment, and thus determining native fish; the needs and appropriate strategies for ● minimise the impacts of carp; and enhancement by stocking, either on a ● improve legal access to the lake. regular basis or under defined conditions; The major impediments to improving the ● assisting/encouraging anglers to utilise the trout fisheries are: golden perch fishery; ● the lack of knowledge on limiting factors ● maintaining Murray cod and golden perch for trout in the storage; populations through regular stocking and monitoring, and assessing Murray cod and ● inconsistent water levels that do not provide suitable habitat for young juvenile trout golden perch populations to determine the (especially rainbow trout) at critical times of effectiveness of stocking programs; the year; ● maintaining the State-wide size, bag and season restrictions for Murray cod;

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 19

● introducing bag and size restrictions for 2.3.1 Geomorphology golden perch; The Pondage has a maximum depth at its gates ● undertaking a comprehensive creel of 10 m at full supply level. It has extensive survey, to gather data on angler preferences shallower flats alongside the inundated river and satisfaction; course. Water clarity and depth allows ● conducting habitat enhancement trials extensive weed growth on the clay/boulder/ aimed at improving the survival of juvenile pebble substrate in these shallow areas. The old fish and the catchability of adult fish; river course follows the hills on the eastern bank before veering toward the road bridge ● determining and promoting water and following a straight line from the bridge management strategies that maximise to the Pondage gates. In the upper Pondage, survival and growth of recently recruited or numerous underwater rock bars and deeper released trout and native fish; holes are associated with the inundated river. ● actively encouraging anglers to recognise Macquarie perch and avoid harming these At full supply, water reaches the riparian sedges and other threatened aquatic species; and grasses and a marsh develops on the ● actively encouraging fishing activities and eastern side of the upper Pondage. At management programs aimed at controlling extremely low water levels (when the Pondage the impacts of carp; is drained for maintenance) only course holds water and it reverts to a flowing ● undertaking analyses of mercury river with a boulder, gravel and rock substrate concentrations in the flesh of edible fish and a pool and riffle stream form. species; and ● defining and identifying legal access points to the lake when water levels are low in order to protect water quality. For further information refer to Part 3, Action Plan Research and Performance Indicators

2.3 Eildon Pondage Eildon Pondage (Figure 4) is located immediately downstream of the Eildon Dam. It is a re-regulation storage facility constructed to contain flows released from the Dam to within the capacity of the Goulburn River channel. The Pondage has a surface area of 150 Ha with a capacity of 5,200 ML. Water levels within the Pondage fluctuate in response to demands for hydro-electricity and irrigation water released from the Eildon Dam. The township of Eildon (pop. 600) borders the northern side of the Pondage and relies heavily upon tourism, including tourism generated from fishing. Figure 4: The Eildon Pondage.

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 20

2.3.2 Water management 2.3.4 Access and facilities The 5,200 ML Eildon Pondage provides Access to the Pondage is excellent with controlled releases from Lake Eildon to the numerous roads and tracks to the bank. Foot Goulburn River. The Pondage allows for access to areas with no vehicle access offers the flexible operation of the hydro-electricity keen angler a chance to avoid the crowds. generation turbines on the Lake Eildon outlets Boating access to the Pondage is normally not and other discharge valves. Water released for permitted and this is an issue for some anglers. power generation during times of high The recent erection of a disabled persons’ electricity demand is held in the Pondage and fishing platform in the lower Pondage has regulated to provide a uniform discharge to gained wide acceptance. Adjacent to the the Goulburn River to meet irrigation or platform, the Lions Club of Eildon has erected ‘passing flows’ demands. The discharges may an undercover barbecue area. This project has occur through a gated weir structure or a small also enhanced the public usage of this fishery. hydro-electricity generation plant operated by a Another project in planning is the private company, Pacific Hydro Investments. construction of a disabled persons’ toilet close to the pavilion. Anglers have suggested that Formerly managed by Goulburn-Murray Water more facilities be constructed around the (G-MW) and its predecessor organisations, the pondage to cater for visitors. Eildon Pondage is now managed by Southern Hydro Partnership, the private operators of the 2.3.5 Current fishery Lake Eildon hydro-electricity generation Eildon Pondage is very popular for trout turbines. Southern Hydro Partnership must fishing and is managed as a ‘put-and-take’ ensure that releases to the Pondage are fishery. It receives around 13,000 trout each sufficient to meet the Goulburn River flows year between September and April. Stocked ordered by G-MW. Southern Hydro manages fish range between 100 g and 4 kg. It is stocked the levels of the Pondage according to its with 3-year-old, 2-year-old and advanced agreement with G-MW. yearling brown trout from the Snobs Creek After negotiations between the Eildon Hatchery. Recent trials of stocking advanced community, G-MW and the Southern Hydro yearling fish (200–250 mm) in October- Partnership, minimum pondage levels over December to cater for holiday fishing pressure winter are to be maintained at one-fifth of appear to have been successful. In some years, capacity between the hours of 11am and 6pm. the Pondage may also gain recruitment from This may change due to the new power station immigrating trout on their spawning coming on line. migration up the Goulburn River. However, this only occurs when the Pondage level is 2.3.3 Environmental issues allowed to fall to that of the river and the gate- Environmental issues in this zone include: valves are opened. ● the effect of the rise and fall of the water The current annual cost of stocking the level on food production for fish; Pondage (year 2000) is estimated to be around ● increased turbidity of Pondage water $20,000, which is approximately 5% of the associated with the regular rise and fall of annual trout stocking budget for Victoria. the water level; and Boating is generally prohibited and there is a ● lack of diverse habitat due to the changing water levels. bag limit of 5 trout per person per day on the Pondage.

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 21

A 1994 creel survey of the Pondage and ● concerns that some skilled anglers take Goulburn River to Alexandra reported that the unfair advantage of the availability of Pondage received the highest fishing pressure stocked fish provided for the benefit of of this area. The fishery is primarily utilised by all anglers. bait fishers (80%) with less than 5% of anglers fly fishing. The Pondage and Goulburn River The management strategies to meet the to Alexandra are very popular with visiting fisheries management objectives and address anglers, the majority of whom come from the issues above include: Melbourne. ● maintaining a trout bag limit and the opportunity to fish year-round; 2.3.6 Specific objectives and fishery ● assessing the need to restrict the individual management strategies daily take of large trout; The goals for the Eildon Pondage fishery are to: ● promoting compliance with catch limits by offer anglers the year-round opportunity to a combination of angler information take 2-5 kg brown trout and rainbow trout (including signage) and enforcement; in this unique easily accessible put-and-take ● assessing the potential of a Fishcare fishery, set in pleasant surroundings suited to volunteer or someone from a similar family or group outings. program to aid management of this fishery; ● continuing to stock 8,000 yearling trout The specific fisheries management objectives during the winter (subject to water levels) to are to: provide a readily-accessible fishery while the ● make large trout available to anglers for as stream fisheries are closed; much of the year as possible, within the limitations imposed by water management; ● continuing to stock 5,000 rising 2-year-old while continuing to share the take of all and 3-year-old brown and rainbow trout (i.e. fish among anglers of all abilities; a total 13,000 trout) annually; ● ● improve fishing access for anglers of all conducting a survey to determine angler ages and abilities; and catch rates, needs and satisfaction with their fishing experience, as well as the ● as far as possible ensure that the trout returns to anglers from releases of trout of stocking schedule is cost-efficient in terms different sizes and at different times of the of the percentage of released fish that are year; caught from the Pondage. ● undertaking a cost-benefit analysis for the The main impediments or issues facing this management of this fishery; fishery are: ● encouraging the development of fishing ● the high costs of stocking advanced platforms and other aids to angler access; yearlings, 2-year-old and 3-year-old trout; and ● limited food availability and highly variable ● working closely with water managers and water levels restricting the trout carrying power companies to improve consistency capacity of the Pondage; and adequacy of the water level in the ● fluctuations in water level limiting access to Pondage year-round. fish and compromising angler safety; For further information refer to Part 3, Action ● downstream escapement of stocked trout Plan Research and Performance Indicators (recognising their contribution to the fishery downstream); and

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 22 2.4 Goulburn River - Eildon 2.4.1 Geomorphology The Goulburn River in this section is in its to Seymour valley tract and meanders across a distinct The section of the Goulburn River between floodplain bounded by low hills. The stream Eildon and Seymour (Figure 5) flows through in the top end of this section from Eildon a relatively narrow, moderately graded Pondage to Alexandra has a boulder and gravel floodplain below Lake Eildon. It is a highly substrate. Bedrock reefs are present regulated stream due to the demands of water immediately downstream of the Pondage and transfer for irrigation and domestic use. It is at several sites downstream to Seymour. In the main conduit for water transfer from Lake times of low flow the stream has a Eildon to Goulburn Weir. Summer releases of characteristic pool, riffle and run sequence. At water from Lake Eildon for irrigation maintain higher irrigation flows, many of the smaller a cold (about 11-13°C) flow throughout the riffles and rapids are over-topped and the river section. Winter flows are reduced to a minimum has a more unbroken flow pattern. passing flow of 120-250 ML/d at the Pondage Downstream of Alexandra to the Cathkin/ and are supplemented downstream by the Molesworth area, the river changes and the inflowing feeder streams. rocky bed and banks are replaced with silts Land use is primarily agricultural (grazing), and clays. The river has fewer rapids and riffles with some remnant native vegetation on the as the flow becomes unbroken, regardless of hills and steeper slopes in the lower end of the the river height. river section near Trawool. From Molesworth to Seymour the substrate The township of Alexandra is the largest includes shingle and clays. Instream woody regional centre bordering the river in this area debris is common along each bank and the that also includes smaller townships such as pool run sequence becomes less pronounced. Thornton and Trawool. This section is an At Kerrisdale, the valley is constricted as the extremely popular recreational site, river flows through a narrow gap between the particularly for fishing. Boating is also Highlands to the north and the Brown Range becoming more popular. to the south. The stream reverts back to include some riffles and gravel substrates through this area. However, once past Trawool the river is beginning its transition to its plain tract as the valley begins to widen at Seymour. Much of the surrounding catchment has been cleared, with only patches of natural vegetation remaining. Riparian vegetation is also mostly cleared along the entire section and is commonly only a single row of trees, discontinuous along both banks. In the upper reaches of the area willows are common. Native vegetation is more common downstream of Molesworth. Redgums and wattles are the main native trees in the lower areas of the section toward Seymour. The section of watershed between Kerrisdale and Trawool is perhaps the exception as it is well-forested and riparian vegetation also improves in this area. Figure 5: The Goulburn River between the Eildon Pondage and Seymour. Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 23

2.4.2 Water management Lake Eildon usually increase after September The Goulburn River downstream of the Eildon to meet irrigation demands in the lower Pondage is highly regulated to enable the Goulburn Valley. Maximum summer releases transfer of water from Lake Eildon to are in the order of 10,000 ML/d. Goulburn Weir at Nagambie. The major reason A process is available under the Order to for water transfer is for distribution to the enable off stream lagoons and wetlands to be Shepparton, Central Goulburn, Rochester- filled if certain conditions are met. An Campaspe and Pyramid-Boort irrigation areas. additional passing flow equivalent to a volume There is also substantial extraction for of up to 80,000 ML is available to be released irrigation, commercial, domestic and stock for the duration of one day to the Goulburn usage along this section. River below the Eildon Pondage Weir during The Storage Operator (Goulburn-Murray November. The water can only be released if Water) is responsible for maintaining and passing flows are at 250 ML/d and five operating headwork structures, and will release hydrological conditions prescribed by the water to meet primary entitlements at the Order are satisfied. Confirmation for the request of the Authority holding the source requirement and final approval must be entitlement. The obligation to provide these obtained from DNRE. Off stream lagoons flows rests with the Authority. The Resource provide habitat for a variety of fish species, Manager (also Goulburn-Murray Water) must provide nursery areas for young fish, and ensure that Authorities comply with their bulk contribute to food production and nutrient entitlements and will keep basin water accounts. cycling of the main river (See Section 2.9). This process has not been used to date. River flows are consistently in the order of 8,000–11,000 ML/d during summer months. Some 30,000 ML of water stored in Lake Flows in excess of 5,000 ML/d generally occur Eildon is allocated for water quality dilution between September and late April in support flows in the Goulburn River. The volume does of irrigation demand. Goulburn-Murray Water not carry forward if unused and can only be is obliged to limit releases during non released with the approval of the Resource irrigation months in accordance with the Manager. Any release for water quality is not minimum passing flow defined by the Bulk counted against entitlements. Water Entitlement (Eildon–Goulburn Weir) The bulk water entitlements are Government Conversion Order 1995 (the Order) to conserve policy and cannot be altered by G-MW or water resources in Lake Eildon. DNRE unless instructed by the Minister. The Order requires a minimum passing flow There are maximum rates of rise and fall for of 120 ML/d to the Goulburn River below discharges from the pondage to the Goulburn Lake Eildon and the Eildon Pondage Weir. If River. The maximum rate of rise is 150 mm/h inflows to Lake Eildon during the previous 24 up to a maximum of 3,500 ML/d. An months exceed monthly trigger volumes instantaneous fall of 150 mm can occur defined by the Order, the passing flow is followed by falls of 30 mm/hr, up to a increased to 250 ML/d on the first day of the maximum of 450 mm on the first day. following month. The minimum passing flow Thereafter the rates are at 30 mm/hr and usually occurs between May and September, 300 mm per day. when water in storage is being maximised for the coming irrigation season. Releases from Sections of the Goulburn River downstream of Lake Eildon to its confluence with the River Murray are proclaimed as a Heritage River under the Heritage River Act 1992.

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2.4.3 Environmental issues 2.4.4 Access and facilities Environmental issues in this zone include: From Eildon to Alexandra there are numerous ● river regulation issues such as the timing, points for bank fishing and wading access temperature and volumes of outflows from along both sides of the river, plus four bridge the Pondage (for example: when the lake crossings, these being at Thornton, at level is low, the high release rates draw Gilmore’s Bridge, at Acheron (the Breakaway) warm (18-19oC) surface water down into the and on the at Alexandra. outlet tower and into the Pondage and river, Angling pressure in these areas can be intense while at normal levels the temperature of at times, particularly when the river is flowing water released into the river can be as low as below 4,000 ML. The low water levels allow 12-13oC); access to waters that were previously ● the impact of exotic vegetation; inaccessible when the river was high. ● stock management along banks; A canoe launching site is located on the river ● narrow and/or absent riparian buffers; downstream of the Pondage and some other ● bank erosion/slumping possibly more informal canoe launching sites are also exacerbated by prolonged high flows, present further downstream. There is a public rapid changes of river height and lack of boat ramp at the Maroondah Highway Bridge riparian vegetation; at Alexandra, and a boat ramp for the use of guests is provided at the Twin Rivers caravan ● possible impacts of boating; park. The Goulburn River in this section is ● impacts of past gravel extraction; covered by boating regulations. ● water quality issues associated with a number of the above; Access becomes more difficult from Alexandra to Trawool where it is restricted to some road ● impacts of prolonged low and high flows and of rapid changes in river height on fish bridges and isolated reserves. Access sites habitat, reproduction and fishing; and include the reserve at Cathkin, the Molesworth boat ramp in the caravan park, the reserves ● aquaculture ventures located on some and boat ramps on the Killingworth Road streams which may affect downstream near Yea and Ghin Ghin, the bridge at water quality. Trawool, and the reserve at the end of Gilmore’s Bridge near Thornton shows a loss Greenslopes Road. Other access is over private of aesthetic and habitat values through litter, property (with permission) or along the river worn areas of bank and car parking. by boat. Bank access is available at several locations along the Trawool-Tallarook Road. Victoria’s Index of Stream Condition (ISC) Two boat ramps are present at Seymour. rates the Goulburn River between Eildon and Nagambie as being in poor or very poor 2.4.5 Current fishery condition (1998-99 data). The ISC integrates The area directly below the Pondage wall for information of the major components of our 200 metres is closed to angling all year round. river systems that are important from an There is presently a possession limit of five ecological perspective. It brings together trout per day over the balance of the river. information on the current river flow regime, Trout regulations in their current form do not water quality, condition of the channel and prevent anglers from fishing for species other riparian zone, and the invertebrate than trout in trout streams during the trout communities living in the stream. closed season. This may result in anglers disturbing trout spawning redds during the closed season.

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The upper reaches of the Goulburn River in The broad angler goals for the Goulburn River this section, particularly from the Pondage above Alexandra are strongly focused on downstream to Alexandra, are generally brown and rainbow trout. Anglers’ aspirations recognised to support one of Victoria’s top range from the opportunity to take wild brown riverine trout fisheries. The river is generally trout in excess of 2 kg to regular catches of shallow in the reaches above Alexandra and trout irrespective of size. this area is particularly popular with fly fishers as well as bait and lure anglers. The section of Downstream from Alexandra, anglers value the river from Eildon Pondage to Alexandra increasingly mixed species fishery, targeting contains brown trout to around 2 kg and lesser redfin and large brown trout. From Yea to numbers of rainbow trout to 1.3 kg. Small Seymour, anglers also target Murray cod, numbers of redfin are also present as are golden perch and carp. The main fisheries goldfish and increasing numbers of carp. management aims are to strengthen the Although redfin are not common within this foundation of this fishery through protection section, a number have been taken around 1 kg and enhancement of fish habitat quality and in recent times. to explore alternative management strategies to enhance the fishery in this section. Downstream of Alexandra the morphology of the stream is more suited to bait and lure The fisheries management objectives for the casting techniques due to the change of the mid Goulburn River, from Eildon to Seymour, river into longer, deeper pools and steeper are to: vegetated banks. Below Alexandra there are still ● determine limiting factors to the wild trout good numbers of trout, with the brown trout populations; probably larger on average (fish up to 3.5 kg ● ensure adequate natural recruitment to are not uncommon). In the lower reaches of support the trout fishery; this section, particularly between Yea and ● minimise interference with spawning trout; Seymour, Murray cod and golden perch are ● encourage the taking of redfin, carp and taken occasionally, however neither species tench; supports a fishery in this area. Macquarie ● minimise the impacts of carp and reduce perch have been reported from the mouth of the numbers of carp and tench; Yea River. ● encourage the taking of small trout and Freshwater spiny crayfish have been keenly enhance the opportunity to fish for large sought by recreational fishers, particularly trout; between Seymour and Yea. However, the ● protect and, where possible, restore stream current status of this fishery is not known but habitats, including physical structure, is thought to have declined. The focus area for riparian vegetation, water quality and flows; crayfish is now centred in the Goulburn ● improve angler access and alleviate downstream of Seymour. crowding and localised intensive fishing 2.4.6 Specific objectives and fishery pressure at limited access points; management strategies ● assess the status of the freshwater spiny The specific objective for the fishery in the crayfish population and protect it if Goulburn downstream of the Pondage is to: necessary; manage the fishery to maximise the angling ● prevent escapes of fish from fish farms; potential of the wild trout populations in the ● monitor downstream water quality from upper section and the development of a mixed fish farms; fishery in the downstream section.

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● minimise impacts of low flows in non ● actively encouraging fish farms to adopt irrigation period; best practice procedures on water quality of ● enhance the mixed-species fishery in the effluents; lower reaches of this section; and ● encouraging the taking of carp; ● identify sources of sediment and ● actively encouraging fishing activities and nutrients that are impacting on important management programs aimed at controlling fish habitats. the impacts of carp; The major impediments or issues facing the ● working in conjunction with the fisheries are: Catchment Management Authority waterways program and seeking other ● uncertain impacts of fishing pressure on trout numbers and size composition; assistance to restore priority habitats that will benefit the long-term management of ● impacts of low regulated winter flows on the fishery; natural recruitment of trout; ● improving collaboration between fishery ● limited access to the river and the resulting managers, Goulburn-Murray Water and high fishing pressure at access points; angler groups to secure adequate flows ● uncertainty about public rights of access to during the trout spawning seasons; much of the river frontage; ● seeking a review of the environmental ● lack of knowledge on the status of fish allocation for the Goulburn River with populations in the river upstream of the purpose of ensuring sustainability of Seymour; the fishery, particularly downstream of the ● uncertain impacts of escapes from fish farms; Eildon pondage to the ● impacts of fish farms on downstream water junction; quality; and ● seeking some of the environmental ● excessive nutrients and sediment loads, allocation of 80,000 ML to enhance low erosion, heavily modified or absent riparian water flows from Eildon Pondage in the vegetation in some areas, and the impacts non irrigation period; of development, exotic fish such as carp, ● promoting collaboration between fishery, and exotic vegetation such as blackberries. catchment, water and Heritage River managers, and private landowners to The management strategies to meet the achieve improved angler access by installing fisheries management objectives and address walking tracks and clarifying access rights; the issues listed include: ● assessing freshwater spiny crayfish ● maintaining a daily bag limit of trout; populations and reviewing regulations to ● maintaining a winter closed season for ensure effective conservation; and trout; ● identifying and defining public access ● continuing the current study of trout points, and improving angler access populations and their responses to habitat opportunities through signage and conditions and fishing; development of land holder relations. ● undertaking studies to address uncertainties about trout spawning habitat, flow rates Under the current trout management policies and fishing impacts on trout populations; of DNRE and VRFish, trout are not stocked in the mid Goulburn River and its tributaries. ● determining the status of fish populations upstream of Seymour; For further information refer to Part 3, Action ● actively encouraging fish farms to prevent Plan Research and Performance Indicators escapement of fish into the river system;

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 27 2.5 Goulburn River Tributary Mollisons Creek and its main tributary, Sugarloaf Creek, rise in a temperate climate Streams – Eildon to Seymour with lower rainfall and their source is the lower Goulburn River tributary streams in the area granitic hills around Pyalong. from Eildon to Seymour (Figure 6) such as Home, Johnson, Ultima Thule and Spring Snobs Creek, the Rubicon River, Acheron creeks rise in the low foothills north of the River, River, Yea River, Sunday Creek Goulburn River between the Highlands and and King Parrot Creek all flow from similar Maintongoon. country. This country typically features high (>500 m) mountains comprised principally of 2.5.1 Geomorphology Paleozoic sedimentary rocks such as mudstone, A. Snobs Creek slate, shale and sandstone and some granite. In the upper reaches, Snobs Creek is a small The climate is montane with a mean annual stream in a narrow, well-forested catchment. rainfall of over 700 mm. In general terms, the The riparian overstorey consists of Mountain Rubicon River and Snobs Creek display Ash and in some places myrtle beech with an similar attributes to the upper Goulburn River understorey including tea tree or ferns, and tributaries zone. However, northward depending on the aspect. Substrate in the migration of the in the upper reaches is fine silt, sand and gravels. The Kinglake area has modified the drainage of the stream is actively degrading and a significant Acheron and Yea rivers as well as of King waterfall is present. Parrot Creek, thus retarding down cutting. Downstream of the waterfall to the Goulburn Typically, these streams have low gradients along River the stream gradient is relatively high their length. This profile is markedly different and the substrate is predominantly boulders from the steep gradients of the tributary and pebbles. Some fine sediment is present in streams in the upper Goulburn River. areas of lower flows. The creek has a relatively steep gradient in this section and has no floodplain until below the bridge. Riparian vegetation is present along the length of the stream except for some understorey clearing between the highway bridge and the Goulburn River. B. Rubicon River The Rubicon River and its main tributary stream, the , join in the hills behind the township of Rubicon. In their upper reaches both these streams are in their mountain tract and are similar to Snobs Creek with respect to substrate and riparian vegetation. The substrate is boulders and pebbles, and the Royston River also has a waterfall. Downstream of the junction, the substrate of the relatively steep stream gradient is dominated by large boulders and bedrock, Figure 6: The major tributaries of the Goulburn with some areas of coarser sediment. Water River between the Eildon Pondage and Seymour. flow is irregular as the stream passes around, over and under the boulders. Large pools are

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 28 rare. This morphology is maintained until the limited to areas of higher stream velocities. river enters its valley tract at Rubicon where Some instream vegetation is present. The the substrate changes to smaller boulders and stream maintains a relatively unbroken flow pebbles with finer gravels and sand. as the stream gradient is reasonably flat. Downstream of this area the stream takes on Riparian vegetation is generally limited to a the pool and riffle sequence. The transition narrow band of native vegetation including from the mountain tract to its valley tract also eucalypts (candle bark), tea tree and wattles. delineates where land clearing has been Further downstream some clearing has undertaken. The floodplain of the lower occurred along the banks but in general the Rubicon valley is mostly cleared. Some scrub is riparian vegetation (as a narrow strip) present only on the steeper hills. Riparian remains for the whole length of stream. vegetation remains mostly intact along the steeper valley wall on the eastern bank until Land use along the stream is primarily grazing. the river enters the plain tract at Tumbling D. Yea River Waters on the Taggerty-Thornton Road. In its upper reaches above Glenburn the Yea Downstream of Tumbling Waters to the River is a small stream with an almost junction with the Goulburn River, the complete canopy of riparian vegetation. The substrate may alternate between areas of gravel, catchment is forested and the valley is sandy silts and clays. The banks become higher relatively wide and the gradient quite gentle. as the stream is incised into the floodplain. In Between Glenburn and Devlin’s Bridge the this area riparian vegetation is mostly confined river changes from its headwater stream to to a narrow strip along one or both banks, its valley tract and is quite unbroken in flow and consists mainly of willow with the with occasional rapids. The stream has the occasional gum and wattle. Where the stream pool, riffle sequence and is bisected by flows along the edge of the valley some occasional rock bars. From Devlin’s Bridge uncleared land is present, but generally the to the junction with the Goulburn, the floodplain has been cleared except for stream flows through a broad valley. scattered redgums. The substrate is clays and sand, the level of C . sand increasing as the stream travels In the upper reaches above Narbethong, the downstream. Woody debris is present instream. Acheron River is a small stream flowing The river is relatively shallow with many of through well-forested catchment. It has a the deeper sections filled in with sand. number of similar tributaries in this area. The stream substrate is composed of sand, silt and Riparian vegetation is mostly restricted to gravel. Riparian vegetation is present and a narrow band following the creek. The consists of native species. The riparian canopy vegetation is a mixture of native and exotic covers the whole stream in places and woody species. Willows are prevalent in the lower debris creates pools where it covers the width reaches. of the stream. Some small riffles are present but generally the flow is unbroken. A major tributary, the , joins near Limestone. This stream rises in Downstream of Narbethong the stream enters the well-forested catchment in the Black its valley tract and the floodplain is mostly Range and is a typical mountain stream in cleared. The valley walls remain well-forested. the headwaters. It is actively degrading and a Major tributaries of the Acheron River, namely waterfall is present. Downstream of the the Steavenson and Little Rivers, enter in this waterfall the stream substrate is boulders and section. The substrate includes pebble and pebbles with some sand. gravel with some silty areas. The gravel is

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E. King Parrot Creek valley which is mostly cleared although King Parrot Creek rises in the mountains near riparian vegetation remains present for most Kinglake. The stream is small with a gravel and of the stream to Broadford. boulder substrate. Silt and detritus are present and are abundant in the slower sections. The The catchment is cleared in the mid reaches stream has a well-vegetated riparian zone until and downstream of Broadford extensive land Flowerdale. Riparian vegetation is a mix of clearing has removed much of the riparian native and exotic plants. Generally the vegetation. The substrate is generally gravel gradient is slight and the stream has a pool, and boulder in the mid to upper reaches and riffle sequence and low flow velocities. the stream has a pool, riffle sequence. The lower reaches are actively eroding and the Downstream from Flowerdale, the stream substrate includes sand and clay. enters its valley tract and flows through a wider ’U’ shaped valley to the Goulburn River. The H. Sugarloaf and Mollisons Creeks stream slows and pools become larger and Sugarloaf and Mollisons Creeks are sourced in deeper. Riparian vegetation is limited to a the granitic hills around Pyalong. The streams narrow strip along both banks and consists of are relatively small and are prone to low wattles, gums and some willows. summer flows. The upper reaches of Mollisons Creek are not the typical pool, riffle sequence F. Home/Johnson/Ultima Thule/Spring but more a series of long pools with occasional creeks granite rock bars and small cascades. Substrate These streams rise in the low foothills north of in the granite section includes sand, silt and the Goulburn River between the Ruffy large granite boulders and bedrock. The lower highlands and Maintongoon. They are very reaches have a substrate of mobile sands and similar to the northern tributaries of Lake clay. Riparian vegetation has been mostly Eildon and are typically small and shallow cleared for much of the stream length. The with a pool, riffle sequence. The upper reaches stream is generally slow flowing. of the catchments have patches of forest and the streams have some areas of native riparian Sugarloaf Creek also has a mobile sand and vegetation. Much of the catchment and stream clay substrate in the mid and lower reaches. banks have been cleared and riparian vegetation in these areas is generally restricted 2.5.2 Water management to a discontinuous band along the banks. Hydro-electricity generation on the Rubicon Riparian vegetation is a mixture of native and River creates some flow regulation and introduced plants. waterway barriers. Water abstraction for power generation during summer results in no or The stream substrate is generally comprised of extremely low flows through the Royston River sand and gravel, most of which has been from the Royston Dam, past the junction with introduced into the stream from corrasion of the Rubicon River at Rubicon and downstream the stream banks. Rock bars are present in to the lower Rubicon power station. The some locations. Some sections of the streams Rubicon River and other tributaries are not are deeply incised into the floodplain and regulated for water supply purposes. areas of active erosion are present throughout the mid to lower reaches of the streams. Flows Goulburn-Murray Water has issued private are variable and can become very low in the diversion licences for irrigation and for drier months. domestic and stock use along each of the major tributary streams in this section. There G. Sunday Creek are no known major impediments to Sunday Creek is a small stream flowing from streamflow, although it is difficult to ascertain Mt Disappointment. The upper reaches flow the number of minor impediments used to through a well-vegetated catchment. The mid enable extraction from the waterways. reaches of the stream flow through a broad

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Some water abstraction for stock, aquaculture ● that the aquaculture ventures located on and domestic use also occurs. some streams may affect downstream water quality. A stream flow management plan is currently being developed for the Yea River and King 2.5.4 Access and facilities Parrot Creek. Stream flow management plans Access varies for each stream but in general, develop a method for allocating water good access is available to Snobs Creek at the resources between competing interests highway bridge and at Snobs Creek falls. including recreational users, commercial and Above the falls, access is restricted to some domestic users and environmental factors. road crossings or foot access through bush. 2.5.3 Environmental issues Access to the Rubicon River is via a public Environmental issues in this zone include: lane near Thornton, at the reserve at Tumbling ● infestation of blackberries limiting riparian Waters on the Thornton-Taggerty Road and diversity; across private land if permission is granted. ● ensuring that current and future residential, Upstream of the Rubicon Power Station, access agricultural, forestry and other is available at Kendall’s Reserve (camping developments do not adversely affect water ground) and at a road bridge before the quality and quantity; Rubicon ‘A’ Power Station. Access above this point to the Royston and Rubicon rivers is ● the prevalence of erosion and siltation, particularly in the northern streams and in restricted to road bridges and creek crossings the lower reaches of the Yea River - or to access by foot through heavy scrub. increased sediment loads are also The Acheron River has several bridges between experienced as a result of routine draining the Breakaway and Narbethong where some and desilting of the Royston Dam; access is available. Upstream of Narbethong, ● potential impacts of increasing salinity on the Acheron Way follows the stream and access the aquatic environment; is available at several points. The Steavenson ● Macquarie perch have been stocked into the River has access points from the Acheron Yea River and showed initial survival. A junction to Marysville. The has Macquarie perch population has been access at the road bridge near Marysville and reported as resident in King Parrot Creek; then at numerous picnic areas along Lady Talbot Drive. ● the presence of Flora and Fauna Guarantee listed barred galaxias (Galaxias fuscus) in The Yea River can be accessed at Ghin Ghin, some upper reaches and tributaries of the in the Yea township and at the Limestone Rubicon, Acheron and Yea River systems. Road Bridge. In the mid reaches access is (The galaxiid is restricted to headwaters of gained in the Devlin’s Bridge area and near streams where natural or artificial barriers Glenburn. The upper reaches can be accessed prevent access to trout. Barred Galaxias from the to the north of have recently disappeared from at least three Castella. locations following successful upstream incursion by trout and their current King Parrot Creek has some access at road distribution reflects areas where there are bridges and tracks from Kerrisdale, and from no, or only small, trout populations); Hazeldene upstream it has numerous off road picnic/access areas all the way upstream to the ● that blackfish, freshwater spiny crayfish and mountain galaxias are also present in this road crossing of Pheasant Creek. section - these native species require Access to the northern tributaries in this substantial cover as part of their critical section, such as Home Creek, is across private habitat; and property or at bridge crossings.

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2.5.5 Current fishery great as on the . Blackfish are Trout fishing in the Rubicon and Royston also known through this waterway, as are Rivers in the early part of the season is quite freshwater spiny crayfish. Some large redfin are productive. Although the brown trout fishery also found in the lower reaches. is self-sustaining, the trout are never very large, About 10 kms from the township of Yea, the mostly with an average weight of around 350 g. Murrindindi River enters the Yea River. The This part of the fishery is very popular with headwaters of both rivers are in forests but anglers. revert to open grazing land downstream. Trout The upper sections are covered with native fishing in both these streams is very popular. forest and the fishing can be difficult because Good self-sustaining populations of both of this natural terrain. As the valley opens, the brown and rainbow trout around 250 g to 700 terrain changes to grazing country. g are found in both rivers. Blackfish and freshwater spiny crayfish are also found in the The run of brown trout from the river can be headwaters. Macquarie perch have been extensive in the Goulburn River, depending on stocked from Devlins Bridge and it is reported the season due to it being preferred spawning that they have spread right down to the water. During the early part of the season there junction with the Goulburn River. Carp in are always a fair number of larger migratory large numbers are also found in the lower fish in the river that can range up to, and reaches, as are redfin. occasionally exceed, 2.5 kg. Freshwater spiny crayfish are present in this and other waters in The King Parrot Creek has always been this section. considered as a popular stream for trout fishing. Self-sustaining brown trout Both the Acheron and Steavenson rivers are populations are the dominant species, regarded as self-sustaining trout waters. Brown averaging around 220 g with some reaching trout are known to spawn on the gravel 900 g. The King Parrot Creek is another stream stretches along the Steavenson and upper close to Melbourne, particularly the northern reaches of the Acheron. Brown and rainbow and western suburbs and its popularity as a trout to around 250 g are considered average trout fishery is well recorded. Macquarie perch with larger specimens to 1.5 kg being taken are also known in the lower reaches of the each season. Trout fishing along the waterway, ranging from 220 g to around 900 g. Steavenson River suffers the same fate as trout fishing along the Rubicon, with large numbers Sugarloaf Creek is not highly regarded as a of predominantly fly fishers visiting this water recreational fishery. However, there are some each season and catches falling markedly small trout and good size redfin in the lower through the summer period. reaches below Broadford. The Acheron River below Buxton to the Sunday Creek offers some trout fishing in the junction with the Goulburn River is also upper areas and is relatively popular with popular with trout anglers. Trout in this river Seymour anglers for redfin fishing in the lower average around 300 g, with the occasional sections in summer, particularly near the larger species to 2kg being taken from the Hume Freeway crossing. lower reaches during the summer months. This Home Creek contains some small rainbow water is more of a general fishery than the trout, brown trout, blackfish and carp, and Steavenson River. Although quite heavily provides some fishing during spring. fished during the season, the pressure is not as

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2.5.6 Specific objectives and fishery ● monitor downstream water quality from management strategies fish farms; The GERFMP recognises that many of the ● protect and, where possible, assist streams are primarily high use trout fisheries restoration of Macquarie perch; and and therefore require specific management. ● develop alternative fisheries in marginal The broad angler goals for the fisheries in this trout streams. management section focus on: continued and improved opportunities for The major impediments to improved trout fishing based on naturally reproducing, recreational fisheries in these streams include: wild trout populations in healthy upland ● uncertain impacts of fishing pressure on streams; enjoyment of unspoiled and peaceful trout numbers and size composition; surroundings; the opportunity to take trout ● limited access and the resulting high fishing regularly and large trout occasionally; and the pressure at access points; development of mixed species opportunities in ● uncertain impacts of fish escaping from the more marginal trout waters. fish farms; The fisheries management objectives for these ● impacts of fish farms on downstream waters recognise the importance of many of water quality; them as popular trout fishing streams and as ● high summer water temperatures and low spawning streams that contribute to the trout flows in many of the streams, affecting the populations in the mid Goulburn system. behaviour, growth, survival and productivity of trout in particular; and The fisheries management objectives for the ● excessive nutrients and sediment loads, Goulburn River tributary streams in the area erosion, heavily modified or absent riparian from Eildon to Seymour are to: vegetation in some areas, and the impacts ● determine limiting factors to the trout of development, of exotic fish such as carp populations; and of exotic vegetation such as blackberries. ● ensure adequate natural recruitment to support the trout fishery; The management strategies to meet the fisheries management objectives and address ● minimise interference with spawning trout; the issues listed include: ● encourage the taking of redfin, carp and ● maintaining a daily bag limit of trout; tench; ● maintaining a winter closed season ● minimise the impacts of carp and reduce for trout; numbers of carp and tench; ● undertaking studies to determine the ● encourage the taking of small trout and impacts of fishing on trout populations enhance the opportunity to fish for large and assessing the need for and likely trout; impacts of a reduced or zero bag limit; ● protect and, where possible, restore stream ● actively encouraging fish farms to prevent habitats, including physical structure, escapement of fish into the river system; riparian vegetation, water quality and flows; ● actively encouraging fish farms to adopt ● improve angler access, and alleviate best practice procedures on water quality crowding and localised intensive fishing of effluents; pressure at limited access points; ● encouraging the taking of carp; ● assess the status of the freshwater spiny crayfish population and protect if ● actively encouraging fishing activities and necessary; management programs aimed at controlling the impacts of carp; ● prevent the escape of fish from fish farms;

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● assessing freshwater spiny crayfish populations and reviewing regulations to ensure effective conservation; ● identifying and defining public access points and improving angler access opportunities through signage and development of land holder relations; ● actively encouraging anglers to recognise Macquarie perch and trout cod, and to avoid harming these and other threatened aquatic species; ● enhancing opportunities for golden perch and Murray cod fisheries; and ● encouraging compliance with the Forestry Code of Practice to limit associated impacts on the aquatic habitat. For further information refer to Part 3, Action Plan Research and Performance Indicators

2.6 Goulburn River – Seymour to Nagambie Figure 7: The Goulburn River between Seymour By the time the Goulburn River passes and Nagambie. Seymour (Figure 7) the inflowing streams are starting to have some impact on summer water particles begin to dominate the substrate. temperatures. However, temperatures are still Although some rocks and rock bars are cooler than natural conditions and often do present, they are less common in this section. not exceed 13oC. Winter flows are still reduced but this section has seasonal flushes due to the The river is incised into a very wide mostly influence of the unregulated feeder streams. cleared floodplain. Riparian vegetation is present along both banks and is dominated by Land use is principally dryland agriculture, willows. The riparian zone is generally wider including grazing and cropping, although on the low banks of the stream and the some vineyards are present around adjacent lagoons and billabongs where Mitchellstown. flooding is likely. Large woody debris is present The townships of Seymour and Nagambie are instream along the banks and sometimes in the largest regional centres in this area. the main channel. However, extensive de- snagging has occurred to facilitate small boat 2.6.1 Geomorphology navigation upstream of Lake Nagambie. In this section between Seymour and Aquatic vegetation is present where the waters Nagambie, the Goulburn River is undergoing are under the influence of the weir and the transition to its plain tract. The gradient and river height remains relatively constant. velocities decrease as the river flows through a less restrictive floodplain and comes under the influence of the Goulburn Weir. The stream becomes depositional, and silt, clay and fine

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2.6.2 Water management 2.6.6 Specific objectives and fishery Water management in the Goulburn River management strategies between Seymour and Lake Nagambie differs The objective of the fishery in the Goulburn little from the Eildon Pondage to Seymour River between Seymour and Nagambie is to: section. Water transfer to Goulburn Weir develop a mixed species fishery for trout, and remains the primary management function, a restored Murray cod, golden perch, redfin with private extraction from the waterway also and freshwater spiny crayfish population. continuing. The fisheries management objectives for the The presence of wetlands and billabongs Goulburn River between Seymour and along the section has little impact on water Nagambie are to: management. The wetlands are usually filled ● determine the fishery potential of this during the first series of increased flows reach; after winter. ● enhance angling opportunities for native species; 2.6.3 Environmental issues Environmental issues include: ● maintain the trout population; ● ● the thermal regime of the river and its encourage the taking of redfin and carp; effect on the fishery (native fish); ● maximise natural recruitment to native fish ● the predominance of willows in riparian populations and residency of adult native vegetation and subsequent impacts on fish in this part of the Goulburn system; instream habitat/food chain; and ● restore the freshwater spiny crayfish ● the impacts of the extensive de-snagging population; upstream of Lake Nagambie. ● protect populations of Macquarie perch; ● protect and, where possible, restore stream 2.6.4 Access and facilities habitats, including physical structure, Boating is the main form of access other than riparian vegetation, water quality and a few road crossings and private property. flows; and Basic boat launching facilities are present at ● minimise the impacts and reduce the Majors Creek and Chinamans Bridge. numbers of carp. 2.6.5 Current fishery The impediments to achieving these goals are: The river in this area contains redfin to about ● high summer flows at low temperatures not 1.5 kg, some good brown trout and a few suitable to native fish; Murray cod. Golden perch, bony bream, ● low winter flows; catfish, tench, carp and goldfish have been ● apparent escapement of stocked native fish recorded and freshwater spiny crayfish are also (into the Waranga Basin/channel system); sought. The current status of some of these species in the main river, particularly catfish ● habitat/water conditions which evidently and bony bream, is not known. Catfish have do not support large populations of native also been recorded in the Tabilk Lagoon (see fish or brown and rainbow trout; off stream wetlands and billabongs). The best ● the decline in numbers of freshwater spiny fishing is generally in early summer. crayfish, probably linked to a decline in habitat quality; and Trout are sought after, but numbers decrease ● restricted access for both bank and boat- from Seymour. Murray cod are present and based anglers. targeted by some anglers but numbers appear small. Best cod fishing occurs in summer when the backwaters warm up.

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The management strategies to meet the flow at these times. The streams do not fisheries management objectives and address support a lot of fishing with the exception of the issues listed include: Hughes Creek. ● maintaining a daily bag limit of trout; Land use is principally dryland agriculture ● maintaining a winter closed season for trout; including grazing and cropping. The ● maintaining the State-wide size, catch and townships of Seymour and Nagambie are the season restrictions for Murray cod; largest regional centres in this area. ● undertaking studies to determine limiting factors for the fish species in this reach; 2.7.1 Geomorphology ● encouraging the taking of carp; A. Major Creek Major Creek to the west is a small, often dry, ● actively encouraging fishing activities and management programs aimed at controlling watercourse. The main tributary stream is the impacts of carp; Hawker Creek. Both creeks flow through low hills where although some State Forest ● assessing freshwater spiny crayfish remains, the catchment has generally been populations and reviewing regulations to cleared. The substrate is rock, clay and pebbles. ensure effective conservation; The lower reaches of the stream are a series of ● identifying and defining public access long pools with shallower areas between. points and improving angler access opportunities through signage and Native riparian vegetation is generally development of land holder relations; continuous along the banks and some aquatic vegetation is present where water is more ● actively encouraging anglers to recognise Macquarie perch and avoid harming these permanent. Instream habitat is present in the and other threatened aquatic species; form of woody debris. ● enhancing opportunities for golden perch and Murray cod fisheries; and ● working in conjunction with the Catchment Management Authority waterways program and seeking other assistance to restore priority habitats that will benefit the long-term management of the fishery. For further information refer to Part 3, Action Plan Research and Performance Indicators

2.7 Goulburn River Tributary Streams – Seymour to Nagambie The tributaries of the Goulburn River in the area from Seymour to Nagambie (Figure 8) rise in a drier part of the catchment and therefore have lower flows than the streams higher in the catchment. These streams have generally warm summer water temperatures and often cease to Figure 8: The major tributaries of the Goulburn River between Seymour and Nagambie. Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 36

B. Whiteheads Creek 2.7.2 Water management Whiteheads Creek is sourced in the granite The major tributaries to the Goulburn River highlands to the east. It is small and often dries downstream of Seymour are Whiteheads Creek, out due to low summer flows. The catchment Hughes Creek and Major Creek. None of these is cleared, and riparian vegetation is generally tributaries are regulated for water supply, but discontinuous and patchy along the stream. they provide water for irrigation and for domestic and stock use. C . Hughes Creek Hughes Creek also has its source in the granite 2.7.3 Environmental issues highlands to the east. It is relatively large Environmental issues include compared to the other creeks in this section. ● erosion and siltation in the catchment; Hughes Creek flows through the plateau of the highlands before rapidly descending through a ● development of farm dams and resultant gorge to the Goulburn plains at Avenel. The effects on stream flow; Hughes Creek catchment has been extensively ● narrow (or absent) riparian buffer zones; cleared and land use is generally sheep grazing ● remnant trout cod and Macquarie perch and viticulture. populations; and In the extreme upper reaches, the stream flows ● the importance of these tributaries for over granite boulders and the gradient is steep. small native fish such as blackfish, galaxiids The stream has a number of deep plunge pools and pygmy perch. and shallow rapids. On the plateau proper, the gradient lowers and the stream flows through a 2.7.4 Access and facilities broad valley. The granitic soils of the upper Access to Whiteheads Creek and the Major catchment are prone to erosion and the stream Creek system is at road crossings or through carries an enormous amount of sand in the private property. Some parts of Major Creek riverbed, which has filled in many of the and its tributaries also flow through areas of deeper areas. Consequently, the stream State Forest. morphology is broad and shallow with an The upper reaches of Hughes Creek can be unbroken flow. Deeper areas are present where accessed near Tarcombe, at the road bridge at granite bedrock is found in the streambed and Bungle Boori, at the DNRE camping reserve flow has washed out sand around the base. near Bungle Boori and at some picnic sites Riparian vegetation is generally poor, although along Hughes Creek Road upstream of Kulaba there are some patches of remnant native Station. The mid-reaches can be accessed at vegetation present, particularly near Kulaba Avenel or via the Tarcombe-Avenel Road at the Station. As the stream traverses the gorge, scout camp and at a small stream gauging granite boulders again cause plunge pools and weir. Downstream of the gauging weir, access rapids. Downstream of the gorge some rock is limited to private property and the Hume and pebble substrate is present in areas of Highway Bridge. faster stream velocities, but generally the flows are slow and sand dominates the substrate. 2.7.5 Current fishery With the exception of parts of Hughes Creek, Downstream of Avenel, the lower reaches of streams in this area are not highly regarded the stream have a more diverse substrate of as fisheries. sand and clay. Instream woody debris is present and creates hydraulic diversity. Hughes Creek rises in hilly granite country. Riparian vegetation is also more prevalent in The large pools in this region are believed to this area, particularly downstream of the contain a self-sustaining population of brown Hume Highway. trout to that may weigh up to approximately

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1.2 kg, presenting good opportunities for ● actively encouraging fishing activities and recreational angling. This area is a favoured management programs aimed at controlling area for fly fishers and general anglers alike. the impacts of carp; The lower reaches off the Highlands plateau ● assessing freshwater spiny crayfish are in open plains country. Sedimentation has populations and reviewing regulations to been found to be a major problem in this area, ensure effective conservation; with large populations of carp, redfin and ● identifying and defining public access goldfish are present in this area. points, and improving angler access opportunities through signage and Macquarie perch are present in the stream and development of land holder relations; were targeted by recreational anglers until they ● actively encouraging anglers to recognise were protected in 1998. The status of the Macquarie perch and trout cod, and to Macquarie perch population is not known. avoid harming these and other threatened Trout cod were stocked into the reaches of the aquatic species; and stream around Bungle Boori in the early 1990s but the current status of the population is also ● working in conjunction with the unknown. Stocking of native fish in Hughes Catchment Management Authority Creek is not considered an appropriate waterways program and seeking other management strategy in the current absence of assistance to restore priority habitats that suitable habitat. will benefit the long-term management of the fishery. 2.7.6 Specific objectives and fishery For further information refer to Part 3, Action management strategies Plan Research and Performance Indicators The specific fisheries management objectives for the Goulburn River tributary streams between Seymour and Nagambie are to: 2.8 Nagambie Lakes ● protect populations of Macquarie perch The township of Nagambie (population est. and trout cod; 1,500) which borders the lake is situated 123 ● protect and, where possible, restore km north of Melbourne on the Goulburn populations of Macquarie perch and Valley Highway. The lake (Figure 9) is a very trout cod; popular tourist destination and is used for ● protect and, where possible, restore stream water skiing and canoeing as well as habitats, including physical structure, recreational fishing. There is also a rowing riparian vegetation, water quality and flows; course on the lake. ● minimise the impacts and reduce numbers Lake Nagambie is generally a shallow water of carp; and storage, developed in the early 1890s as the ● encourage the taking of redfin and carp. first major attempt to regulate water for irrigation in Northern Victoria. Water in the The impediments to achieving these goals are: lake is regulated through the Goulburn Weir, ● low or ephemeral water flows; and which diverts water from the Goulburn River ● siltation and habitat degradation in many to channels that carry water eastwards to streams. irrigation areas around Shepparton and westwards to the region via the The management strategies to meet the Waranga Basin. fisheries management objectives and address the issues listed include: The lake covers an area of 1,120 Ha and has a ● maintaining existing fishery management capacity of 25,000 ML. It is mostly surrounded strategies; by open grazing land. ● encouraging the taking of carp;

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southern pool is often referred to as Lake Nagambie. Water detained by the weir is diverted to the East Goulburn Main Channel and the Stuart Murray and Cattanach Canals. The East Goulburn Main Channel supplies the Shepparton Irrigation Area while the Stuart Murray and Cattanach Canals supply water to the Waranga Basin in the north. The East Goulburn Main Channel and the Stuart Murray Canal are diverted from near the weir structure, while the Cattanach Canal off-take is located to the south west. The Production Management Unit of Goulburn-Murray Water has the prime responsibility for determining the levels of releases from Lake Nagambie. These releases are governed by a number of factors including: ● the level of current demand; ● the standing volume of the Waranga Basin; ● the maintenance of minimal flow requirements; Figure 9: The location of Lake Nagambie within ● the amount of inflow from tributaries; and the Goulburn catchment. ● seasonal and ambient weather conditions. Water levels in Lake Nagambie are maintained 2.8.1 Geomorphology at the full supply level of Goulburn Weir The creation of the Goulburn Weir impounded during the irrigation season, which the Goulburn River, and flooded the old river commences on 15 August and finishes on 15 course and adjacent lagoons and billabongs. May annually. A constant water level during The result is a storage, although often the irrigation season is achieved by regulation described as shallow, that has a highly variable of the distribution channels, with the depth depending on where the lagoons and Cattanach Canal being heavily regulated. old river channels occur. As much of the land Before 1980, the channels were usually drawn was not cleared before the weir was formed, down during the winter non-irrigation season Lake Nagambie is dominated by a large to permit maintenance on the irrigation amount of standing dead timber. Submerged distribution system. From 1980 to 1993, the large woody debris is also prolific in the weir level was lowered by at least 1 m to permit storage. Littoral vegetation is profuse. Substrate rehabilitation of the Goulburn Weir structure. is soft silt and mud with some harder clay areas. At this time bulkheads were installed on the weir structure and on all of the outlet channel 2.8.2 Water management structures, hence there is no longer any Goulburn Weir creates two major pools requirement to lower the lake level for structure connected by the former river course. For the maintenance works. purposes of this document, the entire water body is considered to be Lake Nagambie In 1986 and 1996 the weir level was lowered by however, the northern pool is commonly 3 m in the off season and since 1980 it has referred to as Goulburn Weir while the been lowered by 1 m annually with the

Part 2: Management Unit Descriptions, Issues & Specific Management Objectives Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 39 exception of 1993, 1994 and 1995. Water level has declined to levels that substantially manipulation during this period has been reduce the attractiveness of the lake to used in an attempt to control aquatic weeds. recreational anglers. The lowering of the lake by 1 m releases Prior to the decline in fish abundance in the 10,000 ML, which represents 40% of the total lake, anglers could expect to catch a reasonable lake volume. variety of fish species. Captures of river blackfish, catfish and Murray cod were 2.8.3 Environmental issues frequent although redfin and golden perch Environmental issues include: dominated. More recently, captures of species ● the effect of the thermal regime on aquatic other than carp, redfin and golden perch habitat in the lake, for example, the filling seldom occur. of deeper sections of the lake with cold water during summer irrigation flows; The size of catchable fish in Lake Nagambie has also decreased. In the past, catches of ● the impact of low winter water levels on the redfin over 1.5 kg were common. However, habitat in the lake; the present size of redfin is now usually less ● the impact of the winter drawdown for than 800 g. operational management on fish habitat and the aquatic ecosystem in general; In the past, the lake was extensively stocked with native fish species, reflecting the ● the impact of lake drawdown on aquatic vegetation and the proliferation of exotic popularity of the fishery. From 1979 to 1986 plant species; the Nagambie Angling Club stocked the lake with 38,000 golden perch, 5,000 silver perch ● the declining population of freshwater and 2,000 Murray cod fingerlings. From 1986 spiny crayfish in the lake - it is uncertain to 1994 Fisheries Victoria stocked over 400,000 whether this is due to habitat degradation, golden perch fingerlings. Since 1994 there has overfishing or a combination of both; been no stocking of fish in Lake Nagambie. ● the impact of the accumulated silt and the resulting shallowness of the lake on the The decline in the fishery in Lake Nagambie fishery; and has coincided with the annual lowering of the water levels by one or more metres most ● the environmental impact of the annual use of herbicides to control aquatic weeds. winters since 1980. Simultaneously, there has been a substantial decline in native aquatic 2.8.4 Access and facilities plants in the lake, particularly ribbon weed Angler access is a problem within Lake and pipe reed. At the same time water lilies Nagambie as the majority of the land have taken over large areas previously covered bordering the lake is private property. There by native plants. An extensive control program are four boat ramps within the lake, only one for water lilies has been undertaken by of which is open to the public. This ramp Goulburn-Murray Water using herbicides. requires a permit to launch from the local Fish populations have declined through the council. The availability and ease of access to a 1990s to levels that have discouraged fishers particular fishery is an important determinant from frequenting the lake. Freshwater crayfish of angler participation. numbers have also declined in the lake. Reports from anglers indicate that catches of 2.8.5 Current fishery catfish and Murray cod have also declined. Historically until the early 1980s, Lake Nagambie was regarded as a notable redfin, golden perch and freshwater spiny crayfish fishery. Today the abundance of such species

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2.8.6 Specific objectives and fishery opportunities through signage and management strategies development of land holder relations; The fishery goals in Nagambie Lake and ● working in conjunction with the Goulburn Weir focus on: Catchment Management Authority restoring the mixed-species fishery for golden waterways program and seeking other perch, Murray cod, redfin and freshwater assistance to restore priority habitats that spiny crayfish. will benefit the long-term management of the fishery; The impacts of lowering the water level in Lake ● assessing the need to prevent the escape of Nagambie in winter and the presence of exotic fish from the lake by the use of physical aquatic plants coincide with the decline in the barriers; and fishery. In addition, siltation may have ● evaluating the desirability and effectiveness resulted in a build-up of mud substrate, which of a fish ladder for the Goulburn Weir. may not suit native fish. Before any real improvement can be expected to this fishery, Stocking of native fish does not appear to be the critical limiting factors must be identified an appropriate management strategy at the and addressed. present time. Experience has shown stocked fish do not remain in the lake. The absence of Noting the above, the specific fisheries golden perch in the lake and the regular management objectives for Nagambie Lake are to: catches of golden perch reported by anglers ● restore critical fish habitat; from the connected irrigation channels suggest ● ensure effective conservation of freshwater that the stocked golden perch may move out spiny crayfish; and of the Goulburn Weir. ● minimise the impacts and reduce the numbers of carp. For further information refer to Part 3, Action Plan Research and Performance Indicators The impediments to achieving these goals are: ● water management practices; ● the condition of lake habitat and water 2.9 Offstream Wetlands and quality; and Billabongs ● possible migration of stocked fish. Downstream of the Eildon Pondage (Figure 10) The management strategies to meet the the Goulburn River is typical of the lowland fisheries management objectives and address rivers of the Murray-Darling Basin. An the issues listed include: extensive meander belt is associated with this ● maintaining existing fishery management floodplain. The cut-off meanders have formed strategies; many oxbow lakes, swamps and billabongs ● encouraging the taking of carp; along the river downstream to Nagambie. Some of these waterbodies are quite large, ● actively encouraging fishing activities and management programs aimed at controlling being up to several kilometres in length. Some the impacts of carp; hold water permanently while others are ephemeral and dry in summer. Such systems ● assessing critical habitat limitations on are important to the overall ecological processes fisheries for redfin and native fish, of a natural river ecosystem and can provide especially the impacts of winter drawdown; habitat, food and nutrients to the main river. ● assessing freshwater spiny crayfish populations and reviewing regulations to These waterbodies are typically lined with ensure effective conservation; some remnant vegetation (usually redgums) and sedges are often associated with the littoral ● identifying and defining public access points and improving angler access zone. Aquatic plants are often present in the shallower areas. Typically the substrate of these

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2.9.3 Environmental issues Environmental issues include: ● the unknown status of fish populations in this zone; ● watering strategies for the wetlands; and ● maintenance of riparian vegetation. 2.9.4 Access and facilities Some public access is available at selected wetlands such as Sheepwash Lagoon, the wetlands in Yea township, Homewood Game refuge and Horseshoe Lagoon faunal reserve. Generally most of the wetlands are on private property. 2.9.5 Current fishery The off channel wetlands offer limited angling Figure 10: The location of off stream wetlands from for species such as redfin, carp and tench. Eildon to Nagambie. Some of these areas offer potential for small water fisheries for species such as golden perch lagoons is clay and silt with woody debris and and Murray cod. leaf litter often present. The relationship with the main channel varies for each lagoon and 2.9.6 Specific objectives and fishery can vary from permanent connection to the management strategies main channel (such as the lower end of the The fishery goals for the off channel wetlands breakaway near Alexandra), to a separate focus on: catchment (such as Sheepwash Lagoon near restoring connection of the wetlands to the Molesworth). In addition, the construction of main channel and the development of small roads on the floodplain has created artificial scale native fisheries in areas with suitable ’levees’ which cut natural connecting channels public access. with the Goulburn River, alienating many wetlands from the ’parent’ river-channel. The main potential for recreational fisheries in these waters probably lies in development of: These floodplain wetlands are of high value ● stocking-based fisheries for golden perch for their resident fauna, and they contain a and Murray cod in large accessible and large area of habitat for aquatic flora and permanently isolated wetlands that do not fauna such as water plants, waterbirds, fish contain threatened species; and invertebrates. ● improved access to waters on public land; 2.9.1 Geomorphology ● privately managed fishing in waters on The meandering channel of the Goulburn private land; and River has left a series of river cut-offs and ● restoring the connection between off stream former channels across the floodplain. These wetlands and the main river channel. periodically fill to create wetlands and lagoons. Aside from managing the recreational fisheries 2.9.2 Water management in these waters, the main management priority is the protection of relict populations of native fish. There is provision in the water management strategy to ensure that the off channel For further information refer to Part 3, Action wetlands along the Goulburn River are Plan Research and Performance Indicators replenished at reasonable intervals.

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Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 43 Part 3 Action Plan, Research & Performance Indicators

3.1 Action Plan Action: Develop feasibility plans of adaptive management strategies for stream Management objectives, and strategies to trout fisheries. achieve these objectives for the separate regions Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) of the GERFMP area, are outlined above. The major actions to be undertaken to implement C. Some streams in the GERFMP area contain the GERFMP are now summarised below, endangered or threatened species. The indicating the main agencies or groups GERFMP recognises and supports responsible. These actions are additional to the conservation efforts of such species, and ongoing trout and native fish stocking does not encourage nor support practices programs and the continued administration of that will further negatively impact on these the fisheries regulations applying to these species. inland waters. Priority research and assessment Action: Manage recreational fishing for needs are described separately (see section 3.2). minimal impact on endangered species, and support management of endangered and 3.1.1 Special management waters/ threatened species to ensure their arrangements sustainability. A. The GERFMP recognises the changing Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria/ attitudes of many recreational trout anglers Parks, Flora and Fauna) and the rise in the number of anglers who wish to fish primarily for sport. A concern D. Some streams in the GERFMP area contain of these anglers is that catch-rates decline naturally reproducing wild populations of over the course of the season in the more native species. The GERFMP recognises and popular and accessible streams due to supports conservation efforts to ensure angler harvest early in the season. their sustainability by lessening the impact Action: Undertake research to assess the of recreational fishing on such species, reported decline in angler catch rates and does not encourage nor support throughout the season and introduce practices that will further negatively impact appropriate management arrangements. on these species. Undertake a concurrent education and Action 1: Manage recreational fishing for the monitoring program to determine usage, catch continued sustainability of naturally rates and angler attitudes. reproducing wild native fish species targeted by Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) anglers. Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria/ B. Fisheries Victoria currently base Parks, Flora and Fauna) management of the trout fisheries in many of the streams in the GERFMP area on Action 2: Review recreational fishing naturally reproducing, wild trout management for Murray crayfish in populations. Anglers are also supportive of collaboration with Parks, Flora and Fauna. wild trout fisheries. Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria/ Parks, Flora and Fauna)

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3.1.2 Enforcement Measures introduced in July 2000, under the Anglers strongly and absolutely expressed the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 have: need for more enforcement of fisheries ● prohibited the taking of Macquarie perch regulations in the GERFMP area. The Steering throughout the Goulburn River basin to Committee notes that a parliamentary inquiry protect this threatened species; and into this aspect of fisheries management is ● tightened restrictions on taking Murray cod underway at this time and that individual and catfish to protect these threatened species. members have made representations to that inquiry supporting the need for more Action 1: Implement reviewed bag and enforcement. size limits. Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) Action: Review current fisheries enforcement operating arrangements in accordance with the Action 2: Review trout bag and size limits in outcomes of the parliamentary inquiry that response to the specific objectives of the will address this specific issue. GERFMP and if necessary implement revised Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria bag and size limits for trout. and Regional Services) Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) 3.1.3 Bag and size limits and salmonid 3.1.4 Carp control regulations review The Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute Bag and size limits are management tools will continue with the current carp research imposed to achieve specific management program, which is aimed at describing carp outcomes. Common uses of these regulations population biology and characteristics which are in fisheries where angling pressure is is necessary for future carp control strategies affecting the fishery and some modification of in Lake Eildon (and elsewhere in Victoria). this pressure will be reflected in the fishery. This 3-year program is scheduled for completion in 2001. Following the release of Some of the reasons for imposing these the National Management Strategy on Carp regulations are: Control in October 2000, Fisheries Victoria ● to spread access to the fishery resources will lead the development of a State-wide carp across many users; control program for the catchments covered in ● to modify the size of fish in the fishery; the GERFMP in alignment with the National ● to limit an individual’s daily take to what carp management strategy. most recreational fishers consider to be Action: Develop a carp control program for reasonable for personal use; the catchments covered in the GERFMP in ● to protect size classes or species of the alignment with the National Carp fishery from over harvest; and Management Strategy ● to alter catch rates (not necessarily take rates). Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) Following an extensive review and public 3.1.5 Fish habitat consultation process, from August 2001 Fish habitat is crucial to productive fisheries. Fisheries Victoria will implement bag and legal Every attempt should be made to maintain minimum size limit regulations for: and enhance fish habitat in the GERFMP area. ● golden perch, to spread access to the resource across users; and DNRE (Fisheries Victoria and Regional ● river blackfish, allowing for liberal catches Services) will work with the Goulburn-Broken of this species to encourage anglers to focus on a currently under utilised fishery.

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Catchment Management Authority, Goulburn- Hydro to ensure maintenance of adequate Murray Water, local government, and angler, continuous water levels in the Eildon Pondage community and industry groups to improve: for the maximum period possible each year. ● water quality (including nutrient and sediment abatement); and Action: Review operating procedures of the Eildon pondage with a view to providing ● riparian and instream physical habitat. adequate continuous water levels for the Action: Investigate possibilities to maintain maximum period possible each year. and enhance fish habitat in the GERFMP area. Responsible party: DNRE (MAFRI and Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria Regional Services), local anglers and business and Regional Services), Goulburn-Broken representatives, Goulburn-Murray Water, Catchment Management Authority. Southern Hydro 3.1.6 Angler access 3.1.8 Development of new fisheries Access is a major issue for recreational anglers. Scope exists in the catchment to increase While many access areas are available, there is angling opportunities. Ideas such as the much scope to open up more access locations development of small scale native fish waters through consultation with landholders and in places such as Sheepwash Lagoon, or re-opening gazetted roads. Scope also may exist stocking programs for the development of to develop access along the old Seymour- native fisheries in some streams such as the Yea Alexandra railway line. River or Sunday Creek, need to be explored. DNRE (Fisheries Victoria and Regional Action: Develop new fisheries in the Services) will work with the Goulburn-Broken GERFMP area. Catchment Management Authority, Goulburn- Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) Murray Water, local government, and angler, community and industry groups to improve: 3.1.9 Fish escaping from fish farms ● angler access to the Goulburn River and DNRE (Fisheries Victoria and Regional tributaries to Seymour for both boat and Services) will work with trout and salmon bank anglers; and growers with a view to minimising escapes of ● legal access for boat launching when Lake fish into the Goulburn River and its tributaries. Eildon is at low water levels. Action: Investigate the feasibility of Action 1: Investigate possibilities to increase incorporating fish escape minimisation as a angler access. An angler access project for the condition of aquaculture permits. Goulburn River upstream of Alexandra is Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria) currently underway. Action 2: Promote angler awareness of the 3.1.10 Water management need to obtain landowner permission prior to DNRE (Fisheries Victoria and Regional entering freehold land. Services), in consultation with the Goulburn- Broken Catchment Management Authority, Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria Goulburn-Murray Water, local anglers and and Regional Services), Goulburn Broken business representatives will pursue a review of Catchment Management Authority, local the Bulk Water Allocation for the Goulburn councils, Goulburn-Murray Water. River for an appropriate environmental flow allocation, including Goulburn Weir. 3.1.7 Eildon Pondage water levels The DNRE Northern Region, MAFRI, local Action 1: Review the environmental flow anglers and business representatives will work allocations and delivery process for the with Goulburn-Murray Water and Southern Goulburn River.

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Action 2: Review the operating procedures of right management tools to tackle many of these Goulburn Weir with a view to optimising water issues. These gaps reflect the concerns of levels for the protection of the aquatic ecosystem. anglers. Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria The following strategic research priorities are and Regional Services), Goulburn-Broken specifically aimed at key issues across the Catchment Management Authority, Goulburn- GERFMP area as determined through the Murray Water public consultation process. These research 3.1.11 Recreational fisheries priorities are: ● Assess intra-seasonal variation in trout promotion populations to determine the necessity to Promoting an understanding of the many further control harvest factors that impact on our fisheries is an - Eildon to Seymour tributary streams important role for Fisheries Victoria. It is equally as important to communicate what is - Upper tributaries of Lake Eildon. being done as it is to explain clearly what the ● Monitor trout populations to determine impediments to improving our fisheries are. population size Information, which assists anglers to gain the - Goulburn River maximum from their angling experience, is - Lake Eildon brown trout. also required. Much scope currently exists to promote recreational fisheries in the area via ● Quantify fisheries performance through access point signage, improving land holder/ creel surveys and angler diaries angler relations and improved access. - Upper tributaries of Lake Eildon - Eildon - Seymour tributary streams Action: Produce educational material such as access maps and ‘how to fish’ guides for the - Goulburn River GERFMP area. - Lake Eildon Responsible party: DNRE (Fisheries Victoria - - Eildon Pondage (include cost benefit Education & Information) analysis of stocking). ● Establish indices of trout recruitment as long-term indicators of recruitment levels 3.2 Research Priorities and assess impacts of flow variations on The fisheries in the GERFMP area are complex recruitment where applicable and dynamic. They can fluctuate considerably - Upper tributaries of Lake Eildon as a result of an interconnected range of - Eildon - Seymour tributary streams climatic, environmental and human factors. The need for fisheries management to - Goulburn River. incorporate the results of scientific research into ● Assess the fisheries decline in Lake its decision-making processes is well recognised. Nagambie and develop a strategy for fishery rehabilitation. The main recreational fishing issues identified ● Assess the golden perch fishery in in the GERFMP center on some common Lake Eildon. areas: primarily the population status of angling species, and the improvement of these ● Assess the freshwater crayfish fishery stocks and of the fisheries based on them. At throughout Plan area and develop a present, there exist several essential knowledge management strategy. gaps that are impediments to selecting the ● Assess the status of Macquarie perch and trout cod within the GERFMP area. ● Assess the impacts of flow regimes on spawning trout in the Goulburn River and fish populations in the Goulburn River.

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● Assess opportunities for aquatic and tracked and those responsible for riparian habitat enhancement implementing it to be held accountable. - Tributary streams The following matrix sets out the performance - Goulburn River measures, targets and actions of the GERFMP. - Lake Eildon. Current status and end/review dates have been ● Determine angler usage patterns in high added. It is expected that a review of the use areas. GERFMP will be undertaken in 2005. At this point the actions will be reviewed for ● Develop a program for the improvement of access, including signage. completeness and new actions formulated. Many of these issues are closely linked and a comprehensive research program would 3.4 Stakeholder Consultation incorporate a number of topics. Conversely, it & Responses may be necessary to undertake several studies The development of the GERFMP was carried to develop a full picture of a fishery such as out with involvement and input sought from the Goulburn River. It is therefore difficult to all major stakeholders including DNRE determine a strict order of priority. In general (Fisheries Victoria and Regional Services), terms the Committee determined the following Goulburn-Murray Water, the Victorian order of priority recognising that some Recreational Fishing Peak Body (VRFish), local elements from each section may be included in angler groups, conservation interests, one project. Aboriginal interests, catchment and water ● Goulburn River and tributary streams managers, local government, and tourist and ● Lake Nagambie fishery business interests. ● Fisheries of Lake Eildon and tributary streams An essential part of the preparation of the ● Aquatic and riparian habitat studies/ GERFMP involved stakeholder comment on fisheries access specific issues related to the fishery. A letter ● Native fish requesting written submissions outlining the intentions of the GERFMP and the need for 3.3 Performance public comment was developed and approved through consultation with the steering Measurement committee. A copy of this letter is reproduced Stakeholders’ responses have been used to in Section 4.2. verify, amend or replace the angler goals, Sixty-one letters were sent on 10 December fisheries management objectives, strategies and 1999. A list of respondents has been provided actions set out in the discussion paper. in Section 4.3. Following the consultation process necessary Four public meetings were also conducted in to achieve this feedback, the acceptance of the GERFMP area (Mansfield, Eildon, these elements by all stakeholders is the crucial Seymour and Nagambie) to receive comments element of the GERFMP. on the discussion paper. Calls for public As required under the Fisheries Act 1995, the submissions were also published on the DNRE final GERFMP must specify performance web site, through pamphlets distributed measures, targets and monitoring methods for around stores, information centres and tackle each of the key fisheries management outlets throughout the upper Goulburn objectives, addressing the biological, social and catchment, and through articles released to the economic dimensions of these fisheries. This press for publication in newspapers. All performance measurement framework will submissions received were collated and enable the impact of the GERFMP to be presented to the Steering Committee for consideration. Part 3: Action Plan, Research & Performance Indicators Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 48 and Minister and Minister Fisheries Officer interviews Fisheries Officer interviews and Minister a. Annual report to FCC b. Surveys Tourism a. Annual report to FCC b. surveys and Creel c. surveys and Creel d.Annual report to FCC widely Regulations publicised funded or scheduled funded for funding by dates specified incorporated in all plans >70% in mid 2003 >70% in 2003 >50% trout in recognised streams December 2002 Fisheries Officer interviews a. fully All projects b. improvements Habitat a. in mid 2002 >60% b. in 2002 >40% c. fish/hour 0.2 takeable d.Completed by e. Start September 2001 a. surveys and Creel a. time over Trend b. mid 2002 by > 25% distribution of promotional information on fishing opportunities of the fishing aware opportunities a. and Production b. who are % of tourists moderately to highly moderately their day’s with satisfied fishing > 1 fish of each species > 1 fish of on day they targeted interview trout for adaptive study management of implementation Salmonid Regulations Perch and Golden Review bag and size limits a. who are % of anglers b. who caught % of anglers c. catch rate Angler d.Completion of feasibility e. and Completion identified research identified priorities managers’ strategic and operational plans Biological Social Economic Method a. of Completion b. Catchment and water improvements to fish improvements habitats, in relation range of both to a wide processes threatening and to the for opportunities production improved fish or access to target species developing the fisheries developing to their full sustainable potential of fishing experiences of fishing year-round with opportunities fishing and for both native species introduced Objective Measure Performance Target Monitoring 3. for Provide 2. a view to Manage with 1. variety a wide Provide

Part 3: Action Plan, Research & Performance Indicators Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 49 and Minister MAFRI surveys Fisheries Officer reports, including compliance data a. Annual report to FCC b. reports and Angler c. surveys and Angler d.Report to Minister Annual report to FCC and Minister Creel surveys Creel and community in education programs place eliminated species of threatened to identify and able them 1 September 2001 by End 2002 a. measures Carp control b. escapes Fish farm c. aware of anglers >70% d.Regulations publicised >10% >25% opportunities for input to review processes opportunities for input to review plan and opportunities processes a. of the plan and aware who are % of anglers of the locals aware b. who are Valley % of Goulburn of environmental component of Bulk Broken Goulburn entitlement Water implementation of implementation Carp Controls effectiveness of controls escapement on fish farms fish from support of FFG listing species of threatened of implementation Salmonid Regulations Review a. of review Completion a. Development and b. Demonstrable c. Maintenance and d.Completion and Biological Social Economic Method input of resource users input of resource in the fisheries management process for the area conservation and enhancement of fishing recreational species and other target within fauna freshwater the system managers in resource the fisheries management process and consult/negotiate to them in relation with positive possible for the outcomes and resources fisheries habitats fish 6. for the positive Provide 4. for the Provide 5. relevant Involve Objective Measure Performance Target Monitoring

Part 3: Action Plan, Research & Performance Indicators Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 50 Annual report to FCC and Minister, content of angler information and signage programs Angler Surveys and Angler reportsFisheries Officer aspects on each of Lake Eildon Pondage, Nagambie > 2 with different 2 with > aspects on Lake Nagambie improvement improvement a. different >2 with b. mid 2003 by >75% a. Continuous b.Continuous c. Seymour 1/5 km below accessible bank accessible access pts/ identifiable km per 5 km satisfaction with the with satisfaction plan outcomes with satisfaction compliance with management arrangements fishing access for fishing of all abilities/ anglers mobilities launching facilities Streams a. % of continuously b. of easy, Number c. Boat launching facilities a. fishers’ Recreational b. fishers’ Recreational Lakes a. Safe all-water-level b. boat Improved Biological Social Economic Method possible match between possible the fisheries management arrangements and Victorian recreational aspirations for fishers’ in these the fisheries waters improvement of access improvement the within and facilities GERFMP area Objective Measure Performance Target Monitoring 8. the best Achieve 7. for processes Facilitate

Part 3: Action Plan, Research & Performance Indicators Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 51 Part 4 Further Reading & Supporting Information

Acknowledgments FutureFish Foundation Mr Rex Hunt Throughout the development of the GERFMP, Mr Merv McGuire assistance has been sought and cooperation has been received from many people in various Mr Tim McLean private and government institutions. To those VRFish listed below, and to the many others who Mr Kevin Jacka contributed to the development of the GERFMP, the Steering Committee extends its Mr John Kirkman (deceased) sincere appreciation. Mr Laurie Moretti Mr Gary O’Donahue Mr Rod Theobald (Chair) Mr Les Penrose Department of Natural Resources and Mr Patrick Washington, OAM Environment Mr Alan Baxter Australian Water Technology Mr John Cooper Murrindindi Shire Mr Neville Fowler Councillor Mike Dalmau Mr Mike Hosking Mr Ian Pridgeon Ms Joy Sloan Strathbogie Shire Mr Stephen Smith Mr Russ Atkinson Mr David Trickey Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Mr Ross Winstanley Authority Goulburn-Murray Water Mr Murray Chapman Mr Steve Hall Mr Peter Howarth Mr Bob Klos Mr WJ O’Kane Mr Graeme Wilkinson Mr Russell Wealands Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute Angling Clubs Mr Paul Brown Mr Wally Cubbin Mr John Douglas Fishing Tour Operators Mr Wayne Fulton Mr Geoff Hall Ms Kylie Hall Mr John Pincombe Eildon Action Aquaculture Operators Mr Mick Hall Mr Hugh Meggitt Southern Hydro Partnership Mr Doug Connors

Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 52 4.1 Further Reading Goulburn- Environment Water Quality Committee (1997) Goulburn Broken Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, Act No. 47/ Water Quality Strategy: Addendum to Draft 1988 Strategy: Goulburn/Broken Regional Catchment Fisheries Act 1995, Act No. 92/1995 Strategy, Goulburn City Council, Tatura Environment Protection and Biodiversity Kearney, R. E., Davis, K.M. and Beggs, K.E., Conservation Act, Act No. 91/1999 eds. (1999) Issues affecting the sustainability of Australia’s Freshwater Fisheries Resources and Cadwallader, P & Lawrence, B (1990) Fish in the Identification of Research Strategies, CRC Murray in The Murray eds. Mackay, N.E. & Freshwater Ecology Project No 97/142, Eastburn, D., Murray Darling Basin University of Canberra, Australia Commission (Australia), Canberra Lawrence, B. W. (1991) Fish Management Plan: Caldwell Connell Engineers (1978) Study of Draft, Canberra, Murray-Darling Basin Recreation and Land Use: Lake Eildon and Commission Environs, State Rivers and Water Supply Commission of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Murray Darling Basin Commission (1992) River Murray Boating Management: Draft Commonwealth of Australia (1992) National Discussion Paper, Murray Darling Basin Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development, Commission (Australia), Canberra Commonwealth Government of Australia, Canberra Murrindindi Shire Council (1999) Murrindindi Magic: Visitor Director (Summer 1999/2000) Cottingham, P (1994) Development of a Nutrient Management Strategy for the Goulburn and Broken Nathan, R. J. (1992) Environmental Flows in the River Basins (A National Landcare Program Goulburn River between Eildon and the Murray project): Inception Report, State Water Laboratory River, Armadale, Rural Water Commission of of Victoria, Goulburn/Broken Water Quality Victoria Working Group: Report No. 113, Armadale, Natural Resources & Environment, Dept of Australia (1997) Heritage Rivers and Natural Catchment Cottingham, P, Amenta V, & Lidston, J (1995) Areas: Draft Management Plans, Dept of Natural The Occurrence of Algal Blooms and a Review of Resources and Environment, East Melbourne, Nutrients in Surface Waters in the Goulburn and Victoria Broken River Basins, Water EcoScience Report Natural Resources & Environment, Dept of No. 36/95, Mt Waverley, Australia (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Environment Protection Authority (Victoria) Management, Dept of Natural Resources & (1988) State Environment Protection Policy, Environment, East Melbourne, Victoria Melbourne, Australia Natural Resources & Environment, Dept of Goulburn-Broken Catchment Management (2001) Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide 2001- Authority (1997) Goulburn Broken Catchment 2002, Fisheries Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Land Protection Board, Final Catchment Strategy, Sandercock, C. (1996) Major Storages Operational Goulburn Broken Catchment Land Protection Monitoring Program Report 1992-1995, Prepared Board for Goulburn-Murray Water, Southern Rural Water & Wimmera-Malley Water by Water Ecoscience, Mt Waverley, Victoria

Part 4: Further Reading & Supporting Information Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 53

Thomson, W. K. (1998) The Evolution of Regional Upper Goulburn Waterways Authority (1998) Tourism in Victoria, Country Victoria Tourism Upper Goulburn Waterway Plan, Upper Council, Melbourne, Australia Goulburn Waterways Authority Tourism Victoria (1995) Building Tourism: Unkles, B. (1997) Economic Impact of Recreational Guidelines for Tourism Development in Victoria, Fishing in Victoria, Fisheries Victoria, Tourism Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Melbourne, Australia Tourism Victoria (c1997) Strategic Business Plan Water EcoScience (1997) An Assessment of the 1997-2001: Building Partnerships, Tourism Victoria, Aquatic Vegetation of the Goulburn Weir, Report Melbourne, Australia prepared for Goulburn-Murray Water by Water EcoScience, Mt Waverley, Australia Tourism Victoria (c1997) Strategic Business Plan 1997-2001: Building Partnerships: Summary, Water EcoScience (1988) Ranking Goulburn- Melbourne, Tourism Victoria: 15. Murray Water Storages by Environmental Condition and Needs, Report prepared for Trueman, J. W., Hoye, G.A., Hawking, J.H., Goulburn-Murray Water by Water Ecoscience, Watson, J.A. & New, T.R. (1992) Hemiphlebia Report No. 214/98, Mt Waverley, Australia mirablis Selys: New Localities in Australia and Perspectives on Conservation (Zygoptera: Hemiphlebiidae) Odonatalogica 21: 367-374.

Part 4: Further Reading & Supporting Information Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 54 4.2 Appendix A Copy of the letter sent out seeking public comment:

10th December 1999

Dear [Title],

RE: INVITATION FOR SUBMISSIONS CONCERNING THE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE UPPER GOULBURN RIVER.

The Steering Committee are developing a fisheries management plan for the Goulburn River upstream of and including Lake Nagambie (Goulburn Weir), on behalf of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. A fisheries management plan (FMP) provides a means whereby fisheries can be managed to ensure the use of the fish resources, aquaculture industries and associated aquatic biological resources are undertaken in an effective, efficient and ecologically sustainable manner. The GERFMP must be consistent with the objectives of the Fisheries Act 1995 and with the principles of the Victorian Inland Fisheries Strategy, Ecologically Sustainable Development and Conservation of Biodiversity. The GERFMP must also be developed within the statutory requirements of regulatory bodies such as Goulburn-Murray Water and the Southern Hydro Partnership. A key component of the development of the GERFMP is the identification of stakeholder issues and constraints. The preparation of the GERFMP is being overseen by a steering committee made up of relevant stakeholders including; Fisheries Victoria, VRFish, Eildon Action, Goulburn-Murray Water, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, Murrindindi Shire, Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute and Fisheries Victoria. However, AWT Victoria recognises that this committee although broadly based, does not represent the whole community. Therefore, AWT Victoria would like to take this opportunity to invite you or your organisation to comment on the following key issues and provide your thoughts on any additional points you feel relevant to the development of the GERFMP. The quality of fish habitat including water levels. Angler access. Native versus non-native fisheries. Conservation needs. Abundance versus condition of fish stocks. Sustained multiple use in the fishery

The Steering committee request that written submissions be forwarded to Anthony Conallin C/- AWT Victoria Private Bag 1 Mt Waverley 3149 by Friday the 10th of December 1999. If you have any further queries or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact the Program Leader Michael Shirley or myself on (03) 9550 1000.

Part 4: Further Reading & Supporting Information Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 55 4.3 Appendix B List of respondents of the Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan questionnaire. Mr Russ Atkinson Promotions Officer Strathbogie Shire Nagambie Vic Mr W Cubbin Secretary Nagambie Angling Club Nagambie Vic Mr Wayne Fulton Steering Committee MAFRI (Snobs Creek) Alexandra Vic Mr Mick Hall Steering Committee Eildon Action Eildon Vic Mr Geoff Hall Tour Operator Goulburn Valley Fly Thornton Vic Fishing Centre Mr Kevin Jacka Committee Member VRFish Violet Town Vic (North East Association) Mr Lawrence Marretti Chairman VRFish Jindera NSW (North East Association) Mr Gary O’Donaghue Steering Committee VRFish Glen Waverley Vic Mr W O’Kane CEO GBCMA Shepparton Vic Mr J Pincombe Steering Committee Angling Guide Mansfield Vic Mr Rod Theobald Chair Steering Landowner Nagambie Vic Committee Secretary Goulburn River Trout Alexandra Vic Pty Ltd

Part 4: Further Reading & Supporting Information Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan 56 4.4 Appendix C Gazetted Guidelines.

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Goulburn-Eildon Region Fisheries Management Plan