Regional Fisheries Consultations Meeting Outcomes - 2005

FISH STOCKING, FISH POPULATION SURVEYS AND OTHER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ISSUES

1. INTRODUCTION
2. STATEWIDE
3. GIPPSLAND
- 3.1 FISH STOCKINGS
  - 3.1.1 Departmental Salmonids
  - 3.1.2 Small Waters
  - 3.1.3 Departmental Native Fish
- 3.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS
- 3.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES
4. NORTH EAST
- 4.1 CREEL SURVEYS
- 4.2 FISH STOCKINGS
  - 4.2.1 Departmental Salmonids
  - 4.2.2 Small Waters
  - 4.2.3 Departmental Native Fish
  - 4.2.4 Client Groups
- 4.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS
- 4.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES
5. NORTH WEST
- 5.1 FISH STOCKINGS
  - 5.1.1 Departmental Salmonids
  - 5.1.2 Small Waters
  - 5.1.3 Departmental Native Fish
  - 5.1.4 Client Groups
- 5.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS
- 5.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES
6. PORT PHILLIP
- 6.1 FISH STOCKINGS
  - 6.1.1 Departmental Salmonids
  - 6.1.2 Small Waters
  - 6.1.3 Client Groups
- 6.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS
- 6.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES
7. SOUTH-WEST
- 7.1 CREEL SURVEYS
- 7.2 FISH STOCKINGS
  - 7.2.1 Departmental Salmonids
  - 7.2.2 Small Waters
  - 7.2.3 Departmental Native Fish
  - 7.2.4 Client Groups
- 7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS
- 7.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

Appendix 1 - Fisheries Management Reports

Appendix 2 - Organisational Abbreviations

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

The annual regional consultative meetings provide a forum for discussion on fish stocking regimes, fish population surveys and other related recreational fisheries management issues. Meetings involve representatives from Fisheries Victoria, Primary Industries Research Victoria (PIRVic), Victorian Recreational Fishing Peak Body – VRFish, Water Management Authorities, Catchment Management Authorities, Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), and Rex Hunt Futurefish Foundation (RHFF).

1.2 These meetings:

Review the current year's stocking plan and identify necessary modifications,
Draft next year's stocking plan,
Identify management questions to be answered by stock or catch assessments,
Identify current fishery management issues.

1.3 Angler Input

The meetings are the focal points for information from various sources, including requests and viewpoints from angler groups and individual anglers during the period leading up to the meetings. All current fish stocking requests are considered at these meetings.

1.4 Small Waters

Fisheries Victoria undertakes an annual program of stocking on-grown or advanced yearling trout into small waters (normally less than 5 hectares surface area) in popular areas, the waters being accessible for both junior and disabled anglers.

School holiday and/or other events including Fishing Week are targeted for these releases, with the majority coinciding with the second and third semester holidays when water temperatures are best suited to trout. Rainbow trout are usually stocked as they are normally bigger than the available brown trout at that time of year and are reputedly easier to catch by inexperienced anglers.

1.5 Meeting Reports

Draft reports of the meetings are prepared by Fisheries Victoria and reviewed by all participants. Final reports are confirmed as being accurate summary accounts of the meetings. Enquiries about matters covered in this report should be directed to Fisheries Officers in the nearest DPI Regional office.

1.6 Acknowledgments

The Department would like to thank all stakeholders who gave up their time to prepare for and attend these meetings.

1.7 Contacts

Fisheries Victoria - Spring St:	Rob Gibb	03 9658 4370
Gippsland:	Errol Parmigiani	03 5172 2168
North East:	Greg Sharp	02 6043 7949
	Dave Trickey	03 5833 5944
North West:	Eain McRae	03 5430 4321
South West:	Craig Murdoch	03 5233 5580
Port Phillip:	Matt Ward	03 5226 4688

2. STATEWIDE

Presentation of Information Items

2.1 Ten Waters Trout Stocking Program

2004 was the 5th and final year of this trial in which the stocking of yearling and fingerling trout was compared in several high profile trout waters. Low water levels, brought on by continued drought conditions, has substantially affected the implementation of this program. The table below identifies the waters involved and outlines the stocking history for yearlings (Y) and fingerlings (F). Fish numbers can be sourced from seasonal fish stocking summaries available on the Department's website – www.dpi.vic.gov.au.

	Year of Stocking
Water	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004
Cairn Curran Reservoir	Y	Y	Y	-	Y
Fyans Lake	Y	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F
Harcourt Reservoir	Y	Y	Y	-	Y
Hepburn Lagoon	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F	-	Y
Malmsbury Reservoir	Y & F	Y	Y & F	-	Y
Modewarre Lake	Y	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F
Murdeduke Lake	Y	Y & F	-	-	-
Purrumbete Lake	Y & F	Y & F	Y	Y	Y
Newlyn Reservoir	Y & F	Y	Y & F	Y & F	Y & F
Toolondo Reservoir	Y	-	-	-	-

The Primary Industries Research Victoria (PIRVic) report on the Lake Purrumbete fishery confirms that the Department's preference for stocking yearling trout, in waters with high order predators such as redfin and other trout, is the most effective.

This has been supported by anecdotal reports from anglers that fin-clipped fish, stocked as yearlings, have dominated their catches in recent years.

2.2 On-line Guide to the Inland Waters of Victoria

A 5^th edition of the 'Guide to Inland Angling Waters of Victoria' is now available on-line on the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) website – www.dpi.vic.gov.au/angling.

The revised edition includes more information on the various government agencies responsible for managing fish and fish habitat, including water authorities and catchment management authorities.

Members of the recreational management team based in Head Office will coordinate ongoing maintenance and updating of this Guide based on advice from regional fisheries staff and PIRVic.

2.3 Australian Federation of Coarse Anglers Association

Fisheries Victoria has not renewed the Australian Federation of Coarse Anglers Association's permit that had previously allowed registered competitors in official Association events to release live carp back into the water from which they were caught on nominated competition days. Carp are listed as a noxious species and the deliberate release of live carp is an offence under the Fisheries Act.

2.4 Impacts of Drought on Departmental Fish Stockings

Significant spring rainfall in 2004 resulted in some 'drought recovery' trout stockings. At short notice, trout were stocked into Lake Wendouree, Cairn Curran Reservoir, Hepburn Lagoon, Bostock Reservoir, Barkers Creek Reservoir, Malmsbury Reservoir, Newlyn Reservoir and Tullaroop Reservoir.

Other waters remain drought affected and were not stocked with salmonids in 2004 – these include – Teddington Reservoirs, Lake Toolondo, Dock Lake, Natimuk Lake, Greenhill Lake, Lake Wallace, Deep Lake and Lake Murdeduke.

Drought continues to affect the Department's native fish stocking too, particularly in the Wimmera. In some cases, native fish stockings will be re-allocated to nearby waters where suitable water levels and habitat might support higher than anticipated stockings. In other cases, stockings will be re allocated to large lakes to boost existing stocking numbers or cancelled altogether.

2.5 Impacts of Fire on North East and Gippsland Fisheries

Many of Victoria's prime trout-fishing waters are located in the North East and Gippsland where severe fires occurred during the summer of 2002-03. As there was little information available on the effect of fire on trout in Australia, the Department was provided funding from the State Government's Bushfire Recovery Package to assess river trout populations within and downstream of areas affected by the bushfires.

Twenty-nine sites from 17 fire-affected rivers were assessed in March 2004. Nine of the rivers contained trout populations similar to pre-fire levels. Six did not support any trout at the surveyed sites but were known to contain wild trout populations before the fires. An additional river was considered unsuitable for trout and the results from another river were inconclusive.

Fisheries scientists concluded the bushfires influenced trout populations in localised areas, however the overall effect of the fires was not catastrophic as had been initially feared by some stakeholders. The scientists also concluded that trout populations in the six bushfire affected rivers are likely to recover naturally within three years of the fire, as a result of trout recolonising from connected waterways still containing established self-sustaining populations.

The PIRVic report suggested that changes in the abundance of trout in North East Victoria cannot be solely blamed on the bushfire. Natural variation in trout populations and the effects of other events, such as drought, are also likely to have contributed to the current status of trout populations in Victorian rivers.

The natural recovery of wild trout populations has already been observed in two of the rivers in which no fish were found in the March 2004 surveys. In the Crooked River, anglers caught small numbers of brown trout at the opening of the Victorian trout season in early September 2004. Fly fishermen have also reported capturing brown trout of varying sizes from Cudgewa Creek.

The Crooked River, Suggan Buggan River and the Buckland River were stocked with trout in November and December 2004 to accelerate their natural recovery. All trout released into these waters were fin-clipped to distinguish them from wild trout that are expected to recolonise these rivers as part of the natural recovery process.

2.5 Impacts of Fire on North East and Gippsland Fisheries (cont.)

The Buchan River and Cudgewa Creek were not stocked in 2004 because of uncertainty over the impact that stockings might have on populations of endangered species that are also recovering from the effects of the fires. In the case of Mountain Creek, trout stocking is not permitted under the Heritage Rivers Act 1992 because the creek is situated within a 'Natural Catchment Area'. PIRVic will continue to monitor the recovery process in affected waters this summer via a second round of surveys in early 2005. This monitoring will indicate whether additional stocking should be considered.

Bindi Creek was not considered suitable for trout regardless of any affects from the bushfire. While trout were present in the Morass Creek the results of the survey were inconclusive given the low number recorded and the unknown localised impact of large-scale road works in the vicinity of the survey site.

A summary of the research results and management actions is shown in the table below.

Water	Trout Status	Management Action
Ovens River	OK	No stocking required
Timbarra River	OK	No stocking required
Kiewa River	OK	No stocking required
Mitta Mitta River	OK	No stocking required
Thowgla Creek	OK	No stocking required
Nariel/Corryong Creek	OK	No stocking required
Dargo River	OK	No stocking required
Bonang River	OK	No stocking required
Tambo River	OK	No stocking required
Crooked River	Stocking candidate	Stocked in 2004
Suggan Buggan River	Stocking candidate	Stocked in 2004
Buckland River	Stocking candidate	Stocked in 2004
Cudgewa Creek	Stocking candidate	Monitor in 2005
Buchan River	Stocking candidate	Monitor in 2005
Morass Creek	Inconclusive	Monitor in 2005
Bindi Creek	Not suitable trout habitat	No action
Mountain Creek	No trout surveyed	No action

2.6 Appointment of New Executive Director for Fisheries Victoria

Dr Peter Appleford has replaced Richard McLoughlin as the Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria.

2.7 Fish Habitat Protection – Fisheries Notice

The continuing drought has meant that many of the State's most significant lake fisheries are experiencing very low water levels. During these times the collection of standing and fallen dead timber from the exposed lake bed, depletes fish habitat and limits their future suitability for valuable native fish species, such as Murray cod and golden perch.

For the third consecutive year, Fisheries Victoria intends to introduce a 12 month ban on the removal of dead timber, fallen or standing, from below the high water mark of nominated impoundments.

This increased protection strengthened existing water authority by-laws controlling the harvest of timber from lakebeds.

The current Fisheries Notice expires March 26^th 2005 and will be renewed for another 12 months. Permanent protection will be investigated this year. The likely list of waters for 2005/2006 is:

Lake Eildon	Bellfield Reservoir	Glenmaggie Lake
Lake Eppalock	Green Lake	Rockland Reservoir
Cairn Curran Reservoir	Lake Fyans	Tullaroop Reservoir
Lake Mokoan	Lake Lonsdale	Toolondo Reservoir
Lake Hume	Dock Lake	Lake Batyo Catyo
Pine Lake	Taylors Lake	Booroopki Swamp
Jil Jil Lake	Laanecoorie Reservoir

Under this Fisheries Notice, the maximum fine for collecting wood from dry lakebeds is $2,000.

2.8 Inland Fisheries Management Plans

Regional Catchment Strategies being developed by Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) provide the focus for the development, management and conservation of land, water and biodiversity resources in each region. These will be the major vehicle for the regional implementation of the Victorian River Health Strategy. Regional River Health Strategies will identify assets and threats that relate to river health, and establish priorities for management action at the catchment level.

A review of the development and implementation of the Bendigo Regional Fisheries Management Plan (BRFMP) and the Goulburn/Eildon Regional Fisheries Management Plan (GERFMP) identified opportunities to streamline the planning process. The review also identified the opportunity to gain substantial improvements in fish habitat and angler access by aligning fisheries planning and reporting processes to those of CMAs.

Aligning the boundaries of future fisheries management plans to CMA boundaries will require the development of eight new plans and the expansion of the current BRFMP and GERFMP to cover the entire North Central and Goulburn-Broken CMAs respectively. The review undertaken by Fisheries Victoria, in consultation with the Inland Fisheries Committee, has also determined that the Glenelg/Hopkins, North East and Corangamite regions are the highest priority for the next phase of fishery management plan development. These priorities were based on an assessment of the relative values, risks and opportunities associated with fisheries in each of the 10 CMAs.

2.9 RFL Funding for Fish Stocking

In 2004/05 Fisheries Victoria allocated $992,000 of recurrent funding in support of fish stocking programs. These funds were used primarily to purchase stocks of salmonids and golden perch, produce Murray cod and distribute fish across the State, with a small amount dedicated to coordination of stocking programs. In addition, a further $138,000 was allocated from RFL revenue in support of recent extensions to statewide fish stocking programs.

In an attempt to simplify and better coordinate the use of Recreational Fishing Licence revenue in support of fish stocking programs, the Department is seeking comment on the following revised process to deal with all fish stocking programs across the State. If agreed, this process would be implemented for 2006.

DPI fish stocking budgets to be fixed then indexed annually to take account of the consumer price index (CPI).
Fish stocking applications will no longer be made direct to FRAC in the first instance.
All fish stocking proposals are to be initially directed to the annual Regional Fisheries Consultation (CONS) meetings.
All proposals considered will be sponsored either by VRFish, a fishing association (includes RHFF) or a fishing club.
Where FV wishes to propose a new stocking it will seek support from either VRFish, a fishing association (including the RHFF) or a fishing club to become the proponent prior to the annual CONS meetings.
At the conclusion of the CONS meetings FV will document variations from the previous years stocking program (+/- fish by water body/region)
FV will then cost the agreed stocking program prior to providing a consolidated funding bid to the FRAC to cover additional funding required to deliver on the stocking program.
The FRAC will provide advice to Minister regarding funding of the stocking proposals.
Subject to Ministerial approval, funds will be provided to FV to complete the agreed stocking program.
FV will provide a report to FRAC at the conclusion of the annual stocking program and returns any unexpended funds.

3. GIPPSLAND

At DPI office Hotham Street Traralgon

Wednesday 2nd March 2005

REGION: Errol Parmigiani, Peter Courtney, Pat Shegog, Rebecca Jol
FV: Greg Hayes, Luke Cromie, Jodie Smith
VRFISH: Pat Washington
PIRVic: Wayne Fulton
WATER MNGT: John Cameron (Southern Rural Water)
FCC Stephan Gabas

3.1 FISH STOCKINGS

The following tables detail the quantities of fish planned to be stocked during the 2005/06 season. The figures indicated are based on the projected water levels for each of the identified water bodies. Figures shown in brackets are the maximum stocking rates approved for 2005/06 if water levels substantially exceed current projections. Proposed stocking rates are subject to budget availability from a combination of recurrent DPI funding and funding provided from the Recreational Fishing Licence trust account.

3.1.1 Departmental Salmonids

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Blue Rock Lake	15,000	-	Increased stoking level was supported on the basis of improved habit and water levels also likely to result in improved fishing for shore based anglers.
Glenmaggie Reservoir	-	2,000	Continue existing management
Macalister River Below Lake Glenmaggie.	2,000	-	On the basis of preliminary results form the Macalister creel combined with good angler reports of non-fin clipped brown trout it was agreed to trial not stocking brown trout Above Lake Glenmaggie to Basin Flat. This decision to be reconsidered in 2006 taking account of angler reports of changes in the productivity of the fishery.
Above Lake Glenmaggie to Basin Flat.		5,000
Glenfalloch homestead to Wellington River – Macalister River junction.	-	2,000
Narracan Lake (Yallourn Storage Dam)	7,000	3,000	Continue existing management
Tarwin River	-	1,000	Continue existing management

3.1.2 Small Waters

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests
Guyatt Lake (Sale)	RT	250	2^nd Semester
Heyfield Racecourse(Heyfield)	RT	200	3^rd Semester	Continue existing management
Hyland Lake (Churchill)	RT	1,000x2 250	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week	Stocking of 250 brown trout in each semester discontinued. Additional 250 rainbow trout for each stocking.
Morwell Lake(Morwell)	RT	750x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester and Fishing Week	Continue existing management
Guthridge Lake	RT	250	Fishing Week	Continue existing management as fishing week stocking

3.1.3 Departmental Native Fish

Water	Australian Bass	Priority	Comments
Glenmaggie Lake	-	1	Target is 30,000 per annum (first 15,000 as a priority over all other waters)
Blue Rock Lake	-	2	Target is 30,000+ per annum
Macalister River (below Glenmaggie)	-	3	Target is 10,000+ per annum
Narracan Lake	-	4	Target is 10,000 per annum
Hazelwood pondage	-	5	Target is 10,000 per annum

3.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

3.2.1 Fish Survey Results from CONS 2004

3.2.1.1 SNOWY RIVER RESEARCH

PIRVic research on the Snowy River's fish population indicates that bass recruitment has been sporadic and that the fishery is largely supported by two year classes of relatively old fish – 15/16 years olds and a less abundant 23/24 year old year class. Some natural recruitment of bass in between these year classes has occurred but is relatively small.

Fisheries Victoria has obtained funding from the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) to stock 150,000 Australian bass over 3 years.

The PIRVic research suggests that there are currently constraints on the natural reproduction of wild bass in the Snowy River. Until such time as those constraints have been identified and addressed, stocking of bass is a precautionary conservation' measure to increase the abundance of bass in the river and reduce the dependence on those two old year classes.

The fish would be grown from Snowy River broodfish given a desire to retain the genetic integrity of the catchment.

This stocking project also offers an opportunity to determine whether the sand-slug is a barrier to the upstream migration of juvenile bass. The previous PIRVic study was unable to find juvenile bass so this question remains unknown.

An artificial boost of juvenile numbers offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about this by stocking a proportion of the bass below the slug and marking them to differentiate them from wild fish and fish stocked above the slug.

The monitoring element of this project has 2 components:

In the short to medium term, annual monitoring for 3-4 months following each stocking to determine whether the upstream movement of stocked juvenile bass is impeded by the sand slug.
In the longer term, several years after the 3^rd and final bass stocking occurs, a broader assessment will determine whether the objective of establishing several younger year classes has been achieved.

3.2.1.2 MACALISTER RIVER CREEL SURVEY

In September 2003, a creel survey commenced on the Macalister River to determine the success of brown trout and rainbow trout stockings as well as angler attitudes and satisfaction. Managed by PIRVIC, Gippsland Fisheries Officers and contract staff, the project is funded from the Recreational Fishing Licence Trust Account.

3.2.1.3 HYLAND LAKE

Regional survey planned for May/June 2005

3.2.1.4 TRARALGON CREEK

Scheduled PIRVic assessment delayed by water conditions. Planned to be completed in 2005

3.2 Fish Population Surveys (cont)

3.2.2 Requests for Surveys in 2005

Water	Undertaken By	Primary Reason(s) for the Survey
Cowwar Weir	Region	Survey to determine current fish populations and potential for stocking
Narracan Lake	Region	Determine success of stocking post-works

3.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

3.3.1 Fisheries Victoria

3.3.1.1 AUSTRALIAN BASS PRODUCTION

Early in 2004, Fisheries Victoria sent 10 pairs of Gippsland strain Australian bass broodfish to NSW Fisheries Port Stephens facility in an attempt to improve the reliability of supply for recreational stockings.

The choice to temporarily shift bass production to NSW stemmed from the absence of private sector capacity to supply and NSW Fisheries 20-year experience in production of this species.

In October 2004, NSW Fisheries (now part of NSW DPI) wrote to Fisheries Victoria informing us that nodavirus had been detected in Australian bass at Port Stephens. Nodavirus is a notifiable' disease, which imposes special management obligations on natural resource management agencies.

Following testing, NSW DPI confirmed that some of the Gippsland strain broodfish had tested positive and had been isolated from nodavirus free broodfish. Subsequent testing of the remaining 4 Gippsland broodfish held at Snobs Creek failed to find nodavirus.

This disease outbreak is likely to delay bass stockings in Gippsland with stocking of any bass unlikely this summer.

VRFish supported inclusion of collection and agistment of broodfish in fish stocking funding application to FRAC

3.3.1.2 CLIFTON CREEK FISH KILL

In late April, a large fish kill was reported in Clifton Creek, a tributary of the Mitchell River, situated a short distance west of Bairnsdale. Some 30 tonnes of dead European carp were found in a 1.5km section of the creek. Fisheries Victoria, in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) coordinated the collection of on-site information and the clean–up of dead fish.

The fish kill was limited to carp only. It is not known whether the recent heavy rainfall over the preceding weekend, which washed large quantities of organic material into the waterway, was related to the kill.

3.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont)

3.3.2 Region

Suggested approach to EPA for study of mercury and other heavy metal levels in fish above Thompson Dam.

Suggested consideration of stocking of larger rainbow trout in selected waters as possible statewide program. Initial Gippsland priority for trial in Macalister River above Glenmaggie.

3.3.3 VRFish

No issues identified

3.3.4 Fisheries Co-Management Council

No issues identified

3.3.5 Futurefish Foundation

No issues identified

4. NORTH EAST

At DPI Office Sydney Rd Benalla
Tuesday 8^th February 2005

REGION: Greg Sharp, Steve McMonigle, David Trickey, John Cooper, Matt McMahon, Neville Fowler
FV: Greg Hayes, Marc Ainsworth, Robert Gibb
VRFISH: Stafford Simpson, Mike Edwards, Norm Jones, Wally Cubbin
PIRVic: Wayne Fulton, Kylie Hall
OTHERS: Ray Beavis (WFFC), Steve Smith (DSE), Darren Nabbs (GMW)
APOLOGIES: Joy Sloan, Merv McGuire, Geoff Hall, Emma Mongon

4.1 CREEL SURVEYS

4.1.1 Eildon Pondage

In 2004, the Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL) trust account allocated $107,000 to Fisheries Victoria to stock additional trout into the Eildon pondage and undertake a 12-month creel survey. The additional 2,000 trout will be a mixture of brown trout and rainbow trout to be released over 2 years. Fisheries Victoria already stocks nearly 6,000 trout into the Eildon pondage every year. All of these fish are 2 and 3-year-old trout, weighing between 1 and 4 kilograms each.

The creel survey commenced in September 2004 and will benchmark' the pondage fishery by answering the following questions:
Who catches what, where, when and how?
How long do stocked trout remain in the pondage before they are caught?
Where do anglers come from and how much do they spend on their visit to the pondage?
How satisfied are anglers with their fishing experience at the pondage?

This information will be used by fisheries managers to optimise the stocking strategy and, where possible, further improve fishing opportunities in the pondage.

All of the trout released into the pondage will be individually dart tagged to assist fisheries scientists in their investigations.

Whether or not anglers keep or release their catch of trout from the pondage, they are encouraged to report their capture to the phone number on the tag, making sure to note the:

tag number,
date of capture, and
broad location of the capture.

Tags should not be removed from trout that are released in case other anglers subsequently catch the same fish.

4.1 CREEL SURVEYS (cont.)

4.1.2 Lake Hume

Given that Fisheries Victoria assumed responsibility for all of Lake Hume on 1 September 2004, the RFL trust account and the Department has funded a 3-year study to learn more about the fishery. The study will answer the following key questions:

What fish species are in Lake Hume?
How healthy are these populations?
Who catches what, where, when and how?
Where do anglers come from and how much do they spend on their visit?
What contribution does fish stocking make to anglers' catches?
How satisfied are anglers with their fishing experience?

All of the 50,000 brown trout yearlings stocked into the lake in 2004 were fin-clipped to differentiate them from naturally recruited wild' fish. PIRVic has already undertaken some stock assessment work in the lake and gathered some catch information from angling competitions.

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS

4.2.1 Departmental Salmonids

Water		Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Banimboola Lake (Dartmouth pondage)		2,000	5,000	WFFC request trout stocking. Supported. VRFish request 2,000 BT & 5,000 RT. Supported.
Buckland River		1,500	-	VRFish request 6,000 BT over 3 locations. Supported in part – stocked in 2004 as a 'bushfire recovery' water. To be surveyed by PIRVic for a 2^nd time in early 2005. Assessment results to determine whether further stocking is necessary and at what rate (max. 3,000 BT)
Buffalo Lake		-	-	VRFish request trout stocking. Not supported.
Cudgewa Creek		-	-	VRFish request 6,000 BT over 3 locations. Not supported. To be surveyed by PIRVic for a 2^nd time in early 2005. Assessment results to determine whether stocking is required. Risk Assessment necessary if stocking is recommended.
Eildon Pondage July 05 August September October November December January 06 February March April May June '06	2y/o 2y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o 3y/o 2y/o	200 200 200 50 200 50 200 50 1,000 50 200 50 200 50 1,000 50 200 50 200 50 200	100 100 100 50 100 50 100 50 450 50 100 50 100 50 450 50 100 50 100 50 100	The adjacent stocking plan attempts to spread the stocking of 2 and 3 year old fish relatively evenly throughout the year, other than at Christmas and Easter when significantly higher visitation is anticipated. These figures include a mix of 600 2y/o and 400 3 y/o brown and rainbow trout funded by Recreational Fishing Licence Trust Account.
Fifteen Mile Creek		-	-	TAG requested trout stocking in the upper reaches in 2004. Not supported. Refer to PIRVic survey results in section 4.1.1.
Hollands Creek		1,000	-	WFFC request trout stocking. Supported. Fin-clip all BT.
Hume Lake		50,000	-	VRFish request 50,000 BT. Supported. 25,000 funded by RFL. Fin-clip all BT.
King River		-	-	WFFC request BT stocking below Lake William Hovell. Not supported. Refer to section 4.3.2.
Mt. Beauty Pondage		1,000	1,500	VRFish request 1,000 BT, 1,000 RT & 1,000 RT for Easter. Supported in part. 500 RT prior to Easter 2006 (fin-clipped). WFFC request trout stocking. Supported.
Ryans Creek		500	-	CEM. Fin-clip all BT.
Tallangatta Creek		-	-	VRFish request Departmental survey. Supported – refer to section 4.3.2.
William Hovell Lake		-	-	VRFish request 2,000 BT & 8,000 RT. Not supported. Sufficient natural recruitment from upper King River.

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.2 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

4.2.2 Small Waters

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests / Comments
Anderson Lake(Chiltern)	RT	300	Fishing Week	VRFish request 300 RT for 3^rd term school holidays. Supported in part – stock for Fishing Week.
Arboretum Dam(Euroa)	RT	200x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Bartlett Lake(Tatura)	-	-	-	No futher stocking of RT - stock with GP instead - refer to section 4.2.3. Supported by VRFish.
Cummins Reserve Lake (Yea)	RT	200x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester
Golf Course Dam(Longwood)	RT	200	3^rdSemester	CEM.
Marysville Lake(Marysville)	RT	200x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	CEM.
Mooroopna Rec. Reserve. Lake	RT	100x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	VRFish and Region to submit Initial Screening Form to Translocation Evaluation Panel.
Numurkah Lake	-	-	-	No further stocking of RT - stock GP instead. Supported by VRFish. Refer to section 4.2.3.
Sambell Lake(Beechworth)	RT	500x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	VRFish request 300x2 RT. Supported. Increase stocking rate from 300x2 in 2004 to 500x2 in 2005.
Yackandandah Dredge Hole	RT	200x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Added to 'Small Waters' list for 2005. VRFish and Region to submit Initial Screening Form to TEP.

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.3 Departmental Native Fish

Water	Golden Perch	Murray Cod	Comments
Anderson Lake(Chiltern)	1,000	-	VRFish request 1,000 GP and 500 MC. Supported in part – stock GP only.
Bartlett Lake	1,000	-	CEM. Early notification of release is desirable given opportunity for event.
Boosey Creek	-	-	Stocking of GP and MC to be considered again when water mngt issues are resolved.
Broken Creek	5,000 10,000	2,000 10,000	Dip Bridge area. Refer to section 3.2.4 for client group stocking contribution. Nathalia area. Refer to section 4.2.4 for client group stocking contribution.
Broken River	20,000	-	CEM.
Hollands Creek	1,000	-	WFFC request trout stocking. Supported. Fin-clip all BT.
Buffalo Lake	10,000	1,000	VRFish request 10,000 GP & 1,000 MC. Supported. VRFish to submit an Initial Screening Form for MC.
Craigmuir Lake	1,000	-	CEM. Refer to section 4.2.4.
Cudgewa Creek	-	5,000	VRFish request 5,000 MC. Supported.
Eildon Lake	200,000	50,000	CEM.
Goulburn R.	- - -	25,000 fingerlings 2,500 yearlings 25,000 fingerlings	Stock from McCoy's Bridge to Stewart's Bridge. CEM. Dart-tagged. Murchison to McCoy's Bridge. CEM. Murchison to McCoy's Bridge. CEM. Refer to client group GP stocking proposal in section 4.2.4
Greens Lake (Corop)	-	10,000	RDAC request 40,000 GP and 20,000 MC. Supported in part – 10,000 MC & client group GP stocking - refer to section 4.2.4
Hume Lake	150,000	-	VRFish request 300,000 GP. Supported in part. CEM. RFL funded – refer to section 4.2.4
Kerford Lake	5,000	-	VRFish request 5,000 GP. Supported. CEM.
Kialla Lake	1,500	-	CEM. Refer to section 4.2.4
King Lake (Rutherglen)	1,000	-	CEM. Region and VRFish to seek feedback re: angler catches of GP.
Loch Garry	-	-	Currently dry. No stocking in 2005/06.
Mokoan Lake	-	-	No further stocking of native fish given decision to decommission. Sufficient stock of fish to sustain fish until water levels are lowered.
Mitta Mitta River	-	-	Refer to client group stocking section 4.2.3.2
Nillahcootie Lake	20,000	-	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Numurkah Lake	5,000	-	GVAAC request 5,000 GP. Supported.
Sambell Lake	5,000	-	VRFish request 5,000 GP. Supported. CEM.
Seven Creeks	5,000	-	Stock below Euroa Weir. CEM.
Sumsion Gard'n (Wodonga)	-	-	VRFish request 2,000 GP. Not supported. 2005/06 is the 1^st year of 'assessment' phase. No stocking in 2005/06.
Victoria Lake(Shepparton)	-	-	Limited angler access due to the weed problem. No stocking in 2005/06.
Yackandandah Dredge H.	1,000	-	YKAC request 1,000 GP & 500 MC. Supported in part – GP only.

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.4 Client Groups

4.2.3.1 SALMONIDS

Organisation	Water	Species	Number	Comments
Futurefish Foundation	Hume Lake	RT	10,000 Fin-clipped yearlings.	Reffered by FRAC. Supported but lower priority than RFL funded GP.
Futurefish Foundation	Lake Eildon	RT	10,000 Fin-clipped yearlings.	Reffered by FRAC. Supported but lower priority than RT for Hume given ability to monitor contribution at Hume via current PIRVic study.
Greenwells Flyfishing Club	Cudgewa Creek	BT	5,000	Referred by FRAC. Not supported – refer to section 4.2.1.
Goulburn Valley Flyfishing Centre	Goulburn River	BT RT	5,000 yearlings 5,000 advanced yearlings 10,000 yearlings	Referred by FRAC. Below pondage. Not supported as a stand alone fish stocking (inconsistent with GERFMP) – Support for PIRVic to write to FCC & VRFish to canvass support and develop integrated stocking & monitoring project for submission to FRAC. Gilmore's Bridge. As above. As above.
Goulburn Valley Flyfishing Centre	Goulburn River	BT (or RT)	1,800	Referred by FRAC. 18 sites between pondage and the Breakaway. Conditional support – as above.

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.3 Client Groups (cont.)

4.2.3.2 NATIVE FISH

Organisation	Water	Species	Number	Comments
Shepparton City Council	Craigmuir Lake	GP	500	Referred by FRAC. Not supported – Dept stocking deemed to be appropriate – refer to section 4.2.3.
Shepparton City Council	Kialla Lakes	GP	1,000	Referred by FRAC. Not supported – Dept stocking deemed to be appropriate – refer to section 4.2.3.
Shepparton City Council	Mooroopna Rec. Reserve	GP	500	Referred by FRAC. Not supported – added to 'Small Waters' trout stocking program instead – refer to section 4.2.1.
Shepparton City Council	Amaroo Lake	GP	500	Referred by FRAC. Supported.
Shepparton City Council	Lowanna Lakes	GP	500	Referred by FRAC. Supported.
Numurkah Fishing Club	Broken Creek	MC GP GP	5,000 5,000 5,000	Referred by FRAC. Boulevard area. Supported. Boulevard area. Supported. Station St. area. Supported.
Nathalia & District Development Corp.	Broken Creek (Nathalia)	GP	10,000	Referred by FRAC. Nathalia area. Supported.
Goulburn Valley Sportsfishing Club	Broken Creek (Katamatite to Nathalia)	MC GP	2,000 10,000	Referred by FRAC. Supported. Supported.
Goulburn Valley Sportsfishing Club	Goulburn River	GP	Up to 20,000	Referred by FRAC. Murchison to Mooroopna. Supported.
Rochester & District Angling Club	Greens Lake (Corop)	GP	20,000	Referred by FRAC. Supported. Will complement Dept. stocking of 10,000 MC – refer to section 4.2.3.
Fisheries Victoria	Lake Hume	GP	150,000	Referred by FRAC. Supported – refer to section 4.2.3.
North-East VRFish	Mitta Mitta River	MC	10,000	Tallandoon to Pigs Point. Referred by FRAC. Supported pending approval from TEP.

4.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

4.3.1 Surveys undertaken in 2004

4.3.1.1 FIFTEEN MILE CREEK

In 2004, the Tatong Angling Club asked the Department to stock trout into the Fifteen Mile Creek. In order to make an informed decision, fisheries managers employed PIRVic staff to undertake a survey of the river, to determine the status of existing fish populations.

The same 6 sites, each 100 metres long, which were surveyed in 1997, were electro-fished again in January 2005.

The table below outlines the salmonid catch.

Species	Catch	Length range (mm)	Average length (mm)	Weight range (g)	Average weight (g)
Brown trout	16	65 - 363	141	3 - 593	75
Rainbow trout	11	53 - 198	80	2 - 97	13

Large numbers of two-spined blackfish were also caught along with fewer Mountain galaxias, Murray crayfish, yabbies and pygmy perch.

The 2005 survey found both brown trout and rainbow trout densities to be lower than in the 1997 survey. However, regular brown trout recruitment has occurred in recent years, despite low flows and drought conditions.

The wild trout fishery is expected to recover naturally, without stocking, when these environmental factors improve.

4.3.2 Surveys to be undertaken in 2005

Water	Priority	Reason for Survey
King River	PIRVic	PIRVic to submit a research bid to the FRAC to investigate and quantify the water temperature regime in river below Lake William Hovell which is suspected of being the limiting factor. May lead to subsequent bid, with NECMA, for revegetation to improve shading of river and lower summer temps.
Tallangatta Creek	Region	Region to determine the status of the wild trout population. Possible assistance from PIRVic via Lake Hume project.

4.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

4.4.1 Fisheries Victoria

4.4.1.1 LAKE HUME & LAKE MULWALA

After years of cross border confusion, due to boundaries being submerged under the lakes, anglers at Lake Hume and Lake Mulwala now have certainty about fishing regulations and boundaries.

From September 1 2004, unless exempt, those fishing Lake Hume need only a Victorian recreational fishing licence (RFL), while those fishing Lake Mulwala require only a NSW RFL.

There is no change to the requirement to hold a NSW RFL when fishing all other sections of the Murray River.

NSW fishing regulations now apply to all of Lake Mulwala and Victorian fishing regulations now apply to all parts of Lake Hume.

The upstream boundary of Lake Hume is the junction of the Murray River and Seven Mile Creek Junction at Talmalmo.

More information, including a brochure on the Lake Hume/Mulwala changes, can be obtained from the Victorian DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or NSW DPI on 1300 550 474.

4.4.1.2 KERFORD LAKE SURVEY

In early April 2004, Fisheries Officers surveyed Lake Kerford, near Beechworth, to gauge the success of a golden perch stocking trial during which Fisheries Victoria has released 17,000 fingerlings since 2001.

The overnight survey captured 15 golden perch:

Ranging in weight from 208 to 737 grams with a mean weight of 397 grams,
Ranging in length from 250 to 370mm with a mean length of 305mm
7 of which had reached the legal minimum length of 30cm.

It appears that golden perch from stockings in 2001, 2002 and 2003 were captured in the survey indicating that habitat conditions for golden perch juveniles are favourable in Lake Kerford. Not surprisingly, juvenile golden perch fingerlings released in 2004 were absent from the catch because they are still too small to be captured in the nets.

4.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

4.4.1 Fisheries Victoria (cont)

4.4.1.3 LAKE DARTMOUTH MACQUARIE PERCH REGULATION CHANGES

In August 2004, revised fishing regulations for Macquarie perch were introduced to ensure their sustainable harvest by recreational anglers.

Recent research suggests Lake Dartmouth's Macquarie perch population has declined significantly so Fisheries Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) have introduced measures to conserve stocks.

The bag limit for Macquarie perch in Lake Dartmouth has been reduced from 2 to 1 and the minimum size has been increased from 30 centimetres to 35 centimetres. The existing closed season for Macquarie perch will remain in place from October to December each year and catch limits for the two other Victorian waters where they can be taken by anglers, the Upper Coliban Reservoir and the Yarra River, will remain unchanged.

4.4.2 Region

4.4.2.1 UPPER GOULBURN RIVER TROUT POPULATIONS

Regional fisheries staff conveyed the desire of some anglers to see the Goulburn River, above Lake Eildon, stocked with trout. The Goulburn Eildon Fisheries Management Plan (2.1) does not support the stocking of trout into tributaries of the Goulburn River above the lake.

4.4.3 VRFish

4.4.3.1 EVENING CONSULTATION MEETINGS IN THE NORTH EAST

The north-east consultation meeting in 2005 was held in the evening, to decrease the burden for VRFish representatives who work during the day. VRFish representatives expressed support for continuing this approach in the north-east.

5. NORTH WEST

At DPI/DSE Office at Epsom Road Bendigo
Wednesday 2^nd February 2005

REGION: Eain McRae, Greg Brodie, Gary Hodges, David Cattlin, Neville Fowler
FV: Greg Hayes, Marc Ainsworth
VRFISH: Robert Loats, John Corbett, Alan Chisolm, Jeff Willey, Alan Digby, Stan Sundblom
PIRVic: Wayne Fulton, Kylie Hall
OTHERS: Merv McGuire (RHFF), Dale Farnsworth (GMW), Leigh Williams(BLFC), Jack Cottingham (MNAAC)
APOLOGIES: Joy Sloan (DPI)

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS

Figures shown in brackets are the maximum stocking rates approved for 2005/06 if water levels substantially exceed current projections. Proposed stocking rates are subject to budget availability from a combination of recurrent DPI funding and funding provided from the Recreational Fishing Licence trust account.

5.1.1 Departmental Salmonids

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Barker's Creek Reservoir(Harcourt Reservoir)	5,000	-	B&DFFC request 5,000 BT yearlings. Supported pending water levels. B&DFFC request 500 2/3 year old BT. Not supported – refer to section 5.1.4.
Cairn Curran Reservoir	15,000 (20,000)	-	M&NCAA request Continue Existing Management (CEM). Supported. B&DFFC request 50,000 BT & 50,000 RT pending water levels. Supported in part. B&DFFC also request consideration of triploid trout. Not supported. BDAA request 25,000 BT with further trout pending water level improvement. Supported in part. Up to 15,000 BT in 2005 pending water level improvements. VRFish to liaise with clubs re: future stocking of RT, for input into review of Bendigo Fisheries Management Plan in 2007.
Campaspe River	-	-	M&NCAA request 3,000BT. Not supported. Refer to PIRVic survey results in section 5.2.1.1.
Goldfields Reservoir	200	-	CEM.

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

5.1.1 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Jil Jil Lake	-	-	WAA request 1,000 RT. Currently dry. No stocking in 2005.
Lauriston Reservoir	7,500	-	B&DFFC request 10,000 BT. Supported in part. CEM. B&DFFC express concern about high roach population and downstream spread. Acknowledged – refer to research proposal in section 5.2.2. Re: Triploids
Malmsbury Reservoir	4,000	-	B&DFFC request 5,000 BT & 5,000 RT. Supported in part. B&DFFC request consideration of triploid trout. Acknowledged – refer to research proposal in section 5.2.2. Re: Triploids Up to 4,000 BT in 2005 pending water level improvements.
Talbot Reservoir	1,000	-	BDAA request 1,000 BT & 500 RT. Supported in part.
Teddington Reservoir Top Bottom	- -	- -	MNAAC request CEM but may request native fish upon drought recovery. Dry. No stocking in 2005. VRFish to consider species preferences of NW anglers. Risk assessment may be required for natives.MNAAC request CEM but may request native fish upon drought recovery. Dry. No stocking in 2005. VRFish to consider species preferences of NW anglers. Risk assessment may be required for natives.
Tullaroop Reservoir	5,000	-	BDAA request 5,000 BT. Supported for one year only – usually supports selfsustaining BT population. Fin-clip all BT. Region to survey – refer to section 5.2.2.
Upper Coliban Reservoir	4,000	-	CEM. Up to 4,000 BT in 2005 pending water level improvements.

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

5.1.2 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

5.1.2 Small Waters

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests / Comments
Foletti Caravan Park Lake (Donald)	RT	-	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	MNAAC request 300x2. Not supported – currently drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Kennington Reservoir(Strathdale)	RT	300x2	2^nd & 3^rd	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
St.Arnaud Old Swimming Pool	RT	200	2^ndSemester	MNAAC request 200RT for 2^ndsemester break. Supported. Region and MNAAC to submit an Initial Screening Form to Translocation Evaluation Panel.
Tom Thumb Lake(Eaglehawk)	RT	100x2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	CEM, pending consideration of water quality assessments.

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

5.1.3 Departmental Native Fish

Water	Golden Perch	Murray Cod	Comments
Avoca River	18,000	10,000	MNAAC request 18,000 GP (extra site at Natte Yallock) and 800 MC yearlings. Supported in part.
Batyo Catyo Lake	-	-	MNAAC & WAA request 5,000 GP & 5,000 SP when water levels recover. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Boga Lake	5,000	1,000 dart tagged yearlings	MNAAC request CEM. Supported. 2005/06 will be the 2^nd year of this RFL funded stocking trial.
Cairn Curran Reservoir	20,000	10,000	MNAAC & BDAA request CEM. Supported. B&DFFC suggest re-direction of GP to Laanecoorie Reservoir or the Loddon River. Not supported. VRFish to liaise with clubs re: future stocking of GP in this water, for input into review of Bendigo Fisheries Mngt Plan in 2007.
Campaspe River Axedale to Elmore Rochester area (downstream of Elmore Weir) Eppalock to Elmore.	40,000 - -	- 10,000 10,000	Continue Existing Management (CEM). RDAC request fish tagging kit for club members and 1,000 dart tagged MC dw/n of Elmore. Not supported. Refer to section 5.1.4 for client group stocking request. CEM.
Charm Lake	5,000	500 dart tagged yearlings	MNAAC request CEM. Supported - 2005/06 will be the 4^thyear of this stocking trial.
Crusoe Reservoir	5,000	-	CEM.
Cullulleraine Lake	10,000	10,000	MNAAC request CEM. Partly supported. Silver perch stockings discontinued pending assessment of angler catches.
Eppalock Lake	50,000	20,000	CEM - pending water levels.
Expedition Pass	1,000	250	CEM.
Goldfields Reservoir	2,000	-	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Green Lake (Sealake)	-	-	MNAAC request 5,000 GP when water levels recover. Currently dry – no stocking 2005/06.
Gunbower Creek	-	20,000	CEM.
Kangaroo Lake (incl. Racecourse)	10,000	1,000 dart tagged yearlings	MNAAC request CEM. Supported. 2005/06 will be the 4^thyear of this RFL funded stocking trial.
Kow Swamp	15,000	-	MNAAC request CEM. Supported. 2005/06 will be the 4^thyear of this stocking trial. GP to be chemically marked.
Laanecoorie Reservoir	10,000	-	CEM.
Landsborough Reservoir	-	-	Drought affected – no stocking in 2005/06.
Little Boort Lake	5,000	-	MNAAC request 5,000 GP. Supported.
Little Lake Meran	-	-	Dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Little Murray River	-	10,000	MNAAC request CEM. Supported.
Loddon River Newbridge Bridgewater Above Bridgewater Serpentine Fernihurst Kerang	7,500 10,000 10,000 7,500 10,000 5,000	- 10,000 1,000 dart tagged yearlings - 7,000 3,000	MNAAC request CEM although suggest yearling cod above Fernihurst. Supported in part but no yearling cod, other than above Bridgewater where PIRVic research project is underway. CEM. CEM. MC yearlings to be dart tagged. CEM. CEM. CEM.
Meran Lake	-	-	MNAAC request 5,000 GP when water levels recover.Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Pyramid Creek	10,000	10,000	MNAAC request CEM. Supported in part.
Redbank Reservoir	-	-	Drought affected – no stocking in 2005/06.
Reedy Lake (first)	5,000	500 dart tagged yearlings	MNAAC request CEM. Supported. 2005/06 will be the 4^thyear of this RFL funded stocking trial.
Richardson River	10,000	-	MNAAC & WAA request 10,000 GP. Supported. DAC request regional fish survey in weir pool at Rich Avon. Supported – refer section 5.2.2.

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

5.1.2 Departmental Native Fish (cont.)

Water	Golden Perch	Murray Cod	Comments
Serpentine Creek	5,000	-	CEM.
Tchum Lake	-	-	MNAAC request 5,000 GP when water levels recover.Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Tullaroop Creek(downstream of Reservoir)	5,000	-	CEM.
Upper Coliban Reservoir	-	-	PIRVic study underway. Stocking of MP to be considered at CONS 2006.
Walker's Lake	-	-	MNAAC & WAA request 5,000 GP when water levels recover. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Wooroonook Lake	-	-	MNAAC request 5,000 GP when water levels recover.Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.

5.1.4 Client Groups

Organisation	Water	Species	Number	Comments
Rochester & District Angling Club	Campaspe River (Rochester area)	MC GP	10,000 10,000	Referred by FRAC to forum for consideration and integration into Dept's existing native fish stocking program in this water. Not supported. Existing stocking rates considered adequate.
Bendigo & District Fly Fishers	Barkers Creek Reservoir	BT & RT	500	B&DFFC request approval to stock on-grown trout to hasten recovery of fishing opportunities for large fish. Supported.
Pyalong Restoration Group	Mollison Creek (weir)	MC GP	1,000 1,000	Referred by FRAC to forum for consideration. Regional advice supports stocking of up to 3,000 GP but no Murray cod.

RT - Rainbow trout	GP - Golden perch	MC - Murray cod	MP – Macquarie perch

5.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

5.2.1 Fish Surveys undertaken in 2004.

5.2.1.1 CAMPASPE RIVER

Following a request from a local angling group to stock brown trout into the Campaspe River near Kyneton, Departmental fisheries researchers from PIRVic undertook a survey to determine the status of the existing fishery. This would provide fisheries managers with up-to-date information about the merits of stocking brown trout into the river. Six sites were electro-fished over a river length of 1760m. No trout were caught at any of the six sites. The survey results are summarised below:

Species	Catch	Length range (mm)	Average length (mm)	Weight range (g)	Average weight (g)
Tench	79	50 -456	281	2 - 1712	643
Redfin	55	21 - 272	119	1 - 367	52
Goldfish	36	88 - 297	206	16 - 613	257
Mountain galaxias	25	35 - 86	67	1 - 7	3
Yabby	13	10 - 34	22	2 - 25	9
Flathead gudgeon	2	58 - 75	67	2 - 4	3
Mosquito fish	1	38	38	1	1

The report concludes that environmental conditions affecting oxygen availability are the main limit on the trout fishery at Kyneton. Stocking is unlikely to provide a quality fishery in this area. Habitat enhancement including further revegetation, de-silting of the streambed, stormwater management and/or narrowing the river in sections may improve the fishery.

5.2.2 Fish Surveys to be undertaken in 2005.

Water	Organisation	Reason for the Survey
Cairn Curran Reservoir	PIRVic	PIRVic to submit a bid to the FRAC for a licence-funded study to undertake a creel survey that will estimate catch and determine angler preferences for stocked species. This information will assist fisheries managers and VRFish in considering the need to change management arrangements when the Bendigo Fisheries Management Plan is reviewed.
Lauriston Reservoir	PIRVic	PIRVic to submit a bid to the FRAC for a licence-funded study to determine the impacts of stocking triploid brown trout on the reservoir's roach population. Also applicable to Malmsbury Reservior.
Richardson River	Region	DAC request survey in weir pool at Rich Avon to determine success of stocking trial.
Tullaroop Reservoir	Region	Regional Officers to determine the relative abundance of fin-clipped brown trout from the 2004 stocking.

5.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

5.3.1 Region

5.3.1.1 ANGLER SATISFACTION SURVEYS

NW Regional fisheries staff outlined their plans to survey anglers in the north-west of the State to determine their levels of satisfaction with the performance of their fisheries and current fisheries management arrangements. This is likely to occur in the first half of 2005.

5.3.1.2 FACILITATING ANGLER ACCESS

NW Regional fisheries staff reminded the forum that there are maps on the DPI website (under planning a fishing trip') that identify angler access points. This will shortly be complemented in the field by small road signs (attached to posts) that will highlight angler access in a consistent manner using a VICRoads approved symbol.

5.3.2 VRFish

5.3.2.1 PROTECTING WOODY HABITAT

VRFish representatives support permanent regulatory protection, under the Fisheries Act or other legislation, to protect fish habitat, including timber left vulnerable in drought affected impoundments experiencing low water levels.

5.3.2.2 PROPOSED ASSESSMENT OF AREAS FOR RIVERINE RED GUM NATIONAL PARKS.

VRFish representatives expressed concern about the poor public consultation process that has accompanied the proposed terms of reference for a Riverine Red Gum National Park, which may include the Torrumbarry, Gunbower and Kerang areas. VRFish representatives were also concerned that the proposed Park may result in reduced angler access, particularly overnight camping adjacent to the river.

5.3.3 Fisheries Co-Management Council

5.3.3.1 PROTECTING WOODY HABITAT

The FCC representative expressed support for permanent regulatory protection, under the Fisheries Act or other legislation, to protect fish habitat, including timber left vulnerable in drought affected impoundments experiencing low water levels.

5.3.4 Futurefish Foundation

5.3.4.1 EXPANDING FISH STOCKING USING RECREATIONAL LICENCE FEES

The Futurefish representative expressed 'in-principle' support for a more streamlined process to provide RFL revenue to facilitate fish stockings consistent with outcomes from the Regional Consultation Process.

6. PORT PHILLIP

DPI Office Kyle Road Altona
Wednesday 23^rd February 2005

REGION: Rob Jolly, Matt Ward, David Cass, Brad Smith
FV: Greg Hayes, Marc Ainsworth
PIRVic: Wayne Fulton
VRFISH: John Hotchin, Doug Evers-Buckland, Russell Conway
OTHERS: Graeme Creed (FCC)
APOLOGIES: David Bull

6.1 FISH STOCKINGS

6.1.1 Departmental Salmonids

Water

Brown Trout

Rainbow Trout

Comments

Barwon River

GDACA request:	BT	RT
Ceres Pollocksford Bridge Inverleigh Bridge Queens Park Bridge Winchelsea	1,000 1,500 2,000 1,000 1,000	500 1,000 - 1,000 -

Not supported – self-sustaining BT population in headwaters. Previous BT stocking trials have not been successful. Threatened species (Australian grayling, Yarra Pigmy perch & Australian mudfish) present.
DSE Action Statement for two of these threatened species identifies the stocking of introduced species (including trout) as a potentially threatening process. Refer to pages 45 & 46 of Fisheries Management Report 69 (2004) for more information.

Berwick Springs Estate

1,000

Stock in association with metro Small Waters for 2^ndsemester school holidays. Stocking level reduced given reduction in angler visitation.

Bostock Reservoir

4,000

1,000

BDAA request CEM with preference for BT. Supported – 1,000 RT swapped for 1,000 BT.

Devilbend Reservoir

DPI to develop Risk Assessment for Devilbend and/or Bittern Reservoir once future managing authority is clarified and recreational fishing opportunities are clear.

Hanging Rock

Laurimar Estate Wetlands

Considered a possible 'Small Water' for RT. Risk Assessment necessary. Proponents to consider whether they wish to proceed.

Leigh River

GDACA request 2,500 BT and 2,500RT.
Not supported – self sustaining BT population present as outlined in Fisheries Management Report 69 (2004).

Lerderderg River

Angler requests trout stocking.
Not supported – low flows and unsuitable habitat currently.

Lilydale Lake

2 x 1,500

Stock 1,500 in July into containment net for junior fishing events – Region to advise of dates. Remaining 1,500 RT for Fishing Week.

Modewarre Lake

(5,000)
yearlings

GDACA request 5,000 BT yearlings and 5,000 RT yearlings.
Also request 10,000 BT fingerlings and 10,000 RT fingerlings.
Not supported – consider EPA conclusions about cause of fishkills.
Further stocking dependent on success of caged trials to confirm water can again support salmonids.

Nursery Reservoir

500

BT stocking to recommence following positive feedback from releases in previous years.

Pykes Creek Reservoir

BDAA request 3,000 BT & 1,500 RT.
Not supported – BDAA to submit Initial Screening Form to Translocation Evaluation Panel. If they wish to proceed indepently.Region to provide advisory support in this process.

6.1 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

6.1.2 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

6.1.2 Small Waters

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests / Comments
Bannockburn Lagoon	-	-		Refer section 6.1.3
Caulfield Racecourse Dam	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Region to investigate demand for fish from fishing events. Review in 2006.
Emerald Lake	RT	750 x 2 400	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week	Increase of 250 for each school holiday period given high visitation and angler catches.
Jack Roper Reserve	RT	250 x 2 250	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week
McCleods Water Hole	-	-	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	GDACA request 250 BT. Not supported – poor water quality.
Pakenham Lake	-	-		Delfin request trout stocking. Supported - refer to section 6.1.3 for client group stocking request for 2,000 RT that is supported.
Rowville Lakes Sutton Lake Hill Lake	RT RT	2 x 600 2 x 150	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Roxburgh Park Lakes	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	CEM.
Seagull Lake	RT	800 x 2 500	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week	GDACA request 400RT for "The Ron Nelson Junior Angling Clinic" prior to Fishing Week. Supported – increased by 100 RT. GDACA request 400 RT Supported by 400 RT for each holiday period.
St Augustines Water Hole	RT	200 x 2		GDACA request 400RT for each semester school holidays. Supported – City of Greater Geelong now support stocking of this water.

6.1. FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

6.1.3 Small Waters (cont.)

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests / Comments
Taylors Lakes	RT	-		CEM
WestLake	RT	250 x 2 300	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week
Whittlesea Botanical Gardens	RT	200	Access All Abilities	Stock for 'Access All Abilities' fishing day. Region to confirm that event is proceeding with MAA and confirm dates.
Yarrambat Park Lake	RT	2 x 300 250	2^nd & 3^rdSemester Fishing week	CEM

6.1.3 Client Groups

Organisation	Water	Species	Number	Comments
Delfin	Pakenham Lake	RT	2,000	Referred by FRAC. Supported.
Parks Victoria	Karkarook Lake	RT	(5,000)	Referred by FRAC. Supported pending outcome of Risk Assessment.
Golden Plains Shire	Bannockburn Lagoon	RT	1,600	Referred by FRAC. Supported – forum recommends stocking 500 for 2^nd semester break and 500 RT for 3^rd semester break.

6.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

6.2.1 Fish Surveys to be undertaken in 2005.

Water	Organisation	Reason for the Survey
There are no DPI fish population surveys planned in the Port Phillip Region in 2005.

RT - Rainbow Trout

6.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

6.3.1 Fisheries

6.3.1.1 LAKE MODEWARRE FISHKILL

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) are the Lead Agency for emergency response to fish kills as per the Draft Fish Kill Protocol, while SurfCoast Shire are the responsible body for Management of Lake Modewarre. Fisheries Victoria have been assisting EPA through collection of water and fish samples and have carried out two netting surveys since initial notification late December.

On 21 December Fisheries Victoria received a report that a large number of dead carp were floating on the lake and had washed up on the shore. Fisheries and EPA staff inspected the lake and estimated there was 1,600 dead carp around the entire lake.

At that time, no other species were found dead, despite the fact that the lake is known to support eels, redfin, gudgeon, galaxias and stocked trout. Carp were at varying stages of decay although most fish appeared to have been dead for 2-3 days. The average carp weighed 3 kilograms although some carp weighed as much as 8 kg.

Water samples and fish sent to Attwood laboratories indicated no bacterial or viral signs, or any evidence of infection. The cause of death was consistent with exposure to salty water.

The Surfcoast Shire, local residents and volunteers gathered and disposed of the carp in nearby pits. Between 150 and 200 tonne of carp were removed from the lake and shoreline.

In late January, a netting survey was undertaken to determine what, if any carp remained in the lake. The netting survey might also shed light on any impacts on other species, including the stocked trout.

The survey captured three short-finned eels. No trout or carp were captured. Samples of eels were taken for analysis. Galaxias samples were also taken after noticing several fish were swimming slowly and had a white fungus on their skin. All samples were analysed by the DPI aquatic animal health unit for analysis.

A debrief involving the relevant agencies and stakeholders was organised for early February but was deferred given a second fishkill event when several thousand dead and dying eels washed up onto the shores of Lake Modewarre.

The Surfcoast Shire undertook the necessary clean up and disposal. Two significant rainfall events occurred prior to and after the eel kill with the level of the lake rising and a significant amount of runoff entering the lake.

On 8 February, Fisheries staff conducted a 2^nd round of netting surveys due to the poor results of the first survey. The only species captured were two eels suggesting that both carp and trout populations had both been affected substantially.

Given the possible cross-contamination issues involved all nets and equipment were treated with chlorine prior to any other uses.

A debrief is planned for the near future to analyse all testing and discuss possible causes of both Fishkill events and inform relevant stakeholders of the processes followed and outcomes.

6.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

6.3.1 Fisheries (cont.)

6.3.1.2 MELBOURNE WATER REPORT – 'MELBOURNE'S RIVERS AND CREEKS 2004'

In the Port Phillip and Westernport region, Melbourne Water has responsibility for managing almost 4,000km of rivers and creeks, and a further 1,200km of waterways in forested areas and closed water supply catchments.

In March 2004, Melbourne Water released 'Melbourne's Rivers and Creeks 2004' report into the state of Melbourne's creeks and rivers.

The report finds 28% of Melbourne's rivers and creeks are currently in good or excellent condition and 25% are in moderate condition. It also suggests that the condition of rivers and creeks closer to the city worsen due to the run-off from buildings and roads, the loss of vegetation and litter.

However, the remainder are in poor or very poor condition because of changes to the water flow, litter and debris, and poorer water quality and habitat diversity over past decades. The report is available at www.melbournewater.com.au.

6.3.1.3 LAKE MODEWARRE CREEL SURVEY

In December 2003, a 12-month creel survey commenced at Lake Modewarre.

This project will estimate the total harvest of stocked rainbow trout and brown trout, and ask anglers a range of questions about their fishing experience and their aspirations for this fishery.

The creel survey will also quantify the proportion of fin-clipped trout caught by anglers (stocked as yearlings) versus those that are not clipped (stocked as fingerlings) – see Statewide section 1.1 for more information.

6.3.1.4. EVENING CONSULTATION MEETINGS

Despite the preference of north-east VRFish representatives for evening consultation meetings, those VRFish representatives attending the 2005 Port Phillip meeting expressed a desire to continue with daytime meetings.

6.3.2 Region

6.3.2.1 STATEWIDE SIGNAGE

Regional fisheries staff expressed a desire to see a Statewide signage program to inform anglers, at popular fishing destinations, of the fishing regulations relevant to that water. VRFish supported the suggestion although the forum acknowledged that in large waters, with multiple access points and a range of regulated species, the signage would be expensive.

6.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

6.3.3 VRFish

6.3.3.1 SMALL WATERS SIGNAGE

VRFish representatives suggested that signage at Small Waters (those small lakes stocked with rainbow trout for the 2^nd and/or 3^rd semester school holidays) to provide anglers with on-site information about fishing regulations. Given the number of waters involved in this component of the Department's fish stocking program, and the simplicity of the regulations pertaining to trout fishing in these waters, the forum agreed that this concept was more easily implemental than the Statewide suggestion identified in section 1.3.2.1.

6.3.3.2 ON-LINE GUIDE TO INLAND ANGLING WATERS

VRFish representatives suggested that the Department write to fishing clubs and associations to make them aware of the on-line Guide to Inland Angling Waters. Encouraging anglers to make suggested amendments or additions to the Guide was also suggested and it was acknowledged that a key contact ought to be identified on the website for such contributions.

6.3.4 Fisheries Co-Management Council

6.3.4.1 FISHKILLS

The Fisheries Co-Management Council representative expressed concern about recent fishkills across the State and the difficulties various Government agencies appear to be having in determining causes. The forum was briefed about the current fishkill protocol and the recent training that Fisheries Officers had undertaken to improve the Department's response capacity. It was also suggested that the EPA improve public awareness that they are the Lead Agency for emergency response to fish kills. And that other agencies such as Fisheries Victoria play an active secondary-supporting role as directed by the EPA.

7. SOUTH-WEST

DSE Depot, Vickers Street, Ballarat
Wednesday 16^th February 2005

REGION: Graeme Hanel, Craig Murdoch, Heath Cameron, Paul Shea, Cameron McCallum, Troy Duthie, Murray Burns, Simon McBeth, Natashar Wills, Ron Wollerman
  FV: Greg Hayes, Marc Ainsworth, Luke Cromie
  PIRVic: Wayne Fulton
  VRFISH: Rob Loats, Geoff Cramer, Keith Ridsdale, John Hotchin, Kevin Williams
OTHERS: Bill Allan (FCC), Melody Jane (GHCMA)

7.1 CREEL SURVEYS

7.1.1 Lake Bullen Merri

In mid-2002, PIRVic obtained funds from the Recreational Fishing Licence Trust Account to undertake a 12-month creel survey at Lake Bullen Merri, near Camperdown.

This project aims to estimate the total harvest of stocked fish, including trout, salmon and Australian bass and ask anglers a range of questions about their fishing experience and their aspirations for this fishery.

The fieldwork component of the project was completed late in 2003.

A report is expected in 2005 however preliminary management advice was provided at the 2004 consultation forum and a change in management was adopted with increased stocking of Chinook salmon. Refer to section 3.1.1 for a summary of the stock assessment undertaken in January 2005.

7.1.2 Merri & Hopkins Rivers

In September 2003, creel surveys on the Merri and Hopkins Rivers commenced.

This project aims to determine the return to anglers of fin-clipped trout that have been stocked for many years.

Attitudinal information and angler satisfaction will also be gauged.

Fieldwork finished in 2004 and a report is expected in 2005.

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS

7.2.1 Departmental Salmonids

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Atlantic & Chinook Salmon	Comments
Aringa Reservoir	500	1,000	-	KDAC request 500 BT & 1,000 RT. Supported – stock in June/July.
Beaufort Lake	1,000	1,000	-	BDAA request Continue Existing Management (CEM). Supported – continue to collect feedback from anglers re: catches.
Bellfield Reservoir	-	5,000	-	WAA request 5,000 RT. Stocking approved by Translocation Evaluation Panel (TEP) based on Risk Assessment developed by Fisheries Victoria.
Bolac Lake	-	-	-	BDAA request 8,000 RT. Not supported. Outcomes of LBAC Risk Assessment for estuary perch to be known before other species are considered.
Bullarto Reservoir	500	500	-	BDAA request CEM. Supported.
Bullen Merri Lake	10,000	10,000	2,500 AS & 17,500 CS	BDAA request CEM. Supported. GDACA request 10,000 BT, 15,000 RT and 10,000 CS. Supported in part. CAAC request 15,000 CS, 5,000 RT, 10,000 AS & 10,000 BT. Supported in part. Refer to section 7.3.1.1 for 2005 survey results.
Burrumbeet Lake	-	-	-	BDAA request RT stocking upon drought recovery. No stocking in 2005 – currently drought affected.
Cartcarrong Lake	1,000	-	-	KDAC request 1,000 BT. CEM.
Colbrook Reservoir	200	-	-	BDAA request CEM. Supported.

AS - Atlantic salmon	CS - Chinook salmon	RT - Rainbow trout	BT - Brown trout

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.1 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Cosgrove Reservoir	1,000	1,000	BDAA request CEM. Supported.
Dean Reservoir	500	500	BDAA request CEM. Supported.
Deep Lake	-	-	BDAA request 1,000 BT & 1,000 RT upon drought recovery.Currently drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Dock Lake	-	-	WAA request 5,000 RT upon drought recovery. Currently drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Elingamite Lake	2,000	1,000	GDACA request 2,000 BT and 500 RT. Supported in part. CBAC request 2,500 BT & 2,500 RT. Supported in part – increase in RT of 500 in 2005.
Fyans Lake	6,000	6,000	BDAA & WAA request 6,000 BT & 6,000 RT but no more fingerlings. Supported – refer to survey results in section 7.3.1.10.
Gillear Lake	1,000	1,000	ADAC & KDAC request 1,000 BT & 1,000 RT. Supported.
Gong Gong Reservoir	-	1,000	BDAA request 1,000 RT: 500 in June & 500 in October.Supported – October fish dependent on water level. Integrate with 'Small Waters' releases if possible.
Greenhill Lake	-	-	BDAA request 2,000 BT & 1,500 RT upon drought recovery. WAA request 2,500 BT & 1,500 RT. Currently drought affected –no stocking in 2005.
Hamilton Lake	2,000	3,000	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Hepburn Lagoon	5,000	5,000	BDAA request 5,000 BT & 5,000 RT. Supported.
Hopkins River	2,000	-	KDAC request 2,000 BT. Supported. Fin-clip all BT yearlings. Consider creel survey results at next year's forum (2005).
Konongwootong Reservoir	-	2,000	BDAA request 2,000 BT & 1,000 RT. CAS request 3,000 BT & 2,000 RT. Supported in part. 2nd year of RT only trial – Region to survey again – see section 7.3.2.
Learmonth Lake	-	-	BDAA request 5,000 BT & 5,000 RT upon drought recovery.Currently dry – no stocking in 2005.
Merri River	1,300 6,000	- -	KDAC request 7,500 BT. Supported in part. Above Weir: ADAC request 5,000 BT. Supported in part. Below Weir: ADAC request 5,000 BT. Supported in part. Consider changes to stocking regime once PIRVic creel survey report is complete. Fin-clip all yearlings.

BT - Brown Trout	RT - Rainbow Trout

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.1 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Chinook Salmon	Comments
Moorabool Reservoir	-	-	-	BDAA request 10,000 BT & 5,000 RT upon drought recovery. Currently closed to angling temporarily – no stocking in 2005.
Mount Emu Creek Below Castlecarey Skipton Above weir Below weir Pura Pura Bridge Chatswood Rd Darlington	2,000 500 500 150 150 150	- - - - - -	- - - - - -	BDAA request 3,000 BT. Supported. DRAC request 300 BT at each of Darlington Cricket Ground, Chatsworth Rd Ford and Pura Pura Bridge. Not supported. Fin-clip all BT yearlings. Angler diary program underway.
Moyne River	2,000	-	-	Continue Existing Management (CEM). Fin-clip all BT yearlings.
Murdeduke Lake	-	-	-	BDAA request 10,000 RT & 10,000 CS upon drought recovery. No stocking in 2005. GDACA request water samples with a view to stocking in 2005. Done – not considered suitable for stocking in 2005.
Natimuk Lake	-	-	-	WAA request 10,000 RT upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005.
Newlyn Reservoir	4,000	-	-	BDAA request 4,000 BT and no more fingerlings. Supported.
Purrumbete Lake	15,000	20,000	10,000	GDACA request 20,000 BT (fin clipped), 20,000 RT and 10,000 CS. Supported in part. PAC request 30,000 BT, 15,000 RT & 15,000 CS. Supported in part. CEM.

AS - Atlantic salmon	CS - Chinook salmon	RT - Rainbow trout	BT - Brown trout

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.1 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

Water	Brown Trout	Rainbow Trout	Comments
Rocklands Reservoir	20,000	-	WAA request surplus trout. Supported in part – annual allocation of trout rather than surplus. BADAC request 50,000 trout to assist in carp control. Not supported.
St Georges Lake	1,000	1,000	BDAA request CEM. Supported – Region to pursue angler feedback on catches to justify increased stocking rate in 2004.
Tooliorook Lake	-	-	BDAA request 2,000 BT & 4,000 RT. Drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Toolondo Reservoir	-	-	BDAA request 20,000 BT and return to full stocking levels upon drought recovery. WAA request 36,000 BT upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005.
Wallace Lake	-	-	WAA request 4,000RT & 1,000 BT. Currently drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Wartook Lake	7,000	-	BDAA request CEM. Supported.WAA request 7,000 BT plus 7,000 RT 'oneoff' stocking.Supported in part. CEM with BT only. Lake Bellfield to provide RT fishing opportunities nearby.
Wendouree Lake	-	10,000	BDAA request CEM and interest in progressing with Tas/NSW strain trial. (Stock 2,000 per month in May, June, July, August & December). Supported – refer to 7.2.4 for client group stocking of BT also.
West Barwon Dam	-	4,000	GDACA request 5,000 RT. Supported in part. Review in 2006. VRFish to seek feedback from anglers on catches to determine if continuation of increased stocking rate is warranted.
Wombat Reservoir	1,000	1,000	BDAA request CEM. Supported. CEM.
Wurdiboluc Reservoir	2,000	4,000	GDACA request 7,500 BT and 7,500 RT. Supported in part. CEM.

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.2 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

7.2.2 Small Waters

Water	Species	Number	School holidays	Requests / Comments
Alexandra Lake(Ararat)	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	WAA request 200 RT. Supported. Stock closer to commencement of holiday break if possible.
Bolwarrah Weir	RT	-	-	BDAA request 500RT. Region to inspect and advise. Initial Screening Form required if water is considered suitable. Further liaison necessary.
Calembeen Lake (Creswick)	RT	150 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	BDAA requested 500BT and 500RT in 2004. Initial Screening Form required.
Cato Lake (Stawell)	RT	300 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	NGSC request 300 RT for 2^nd semester break. Supported. WAA request 300 RT. Supported.
Dunkeld Arboretum	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Continue Existing Management (CEM).
Esmond Lake	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	BDAA request 200x2 RT. Supported. Initial Screening Form required.
Ess Lagoon (Casterton)	RT	500 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	CAS request CEM. Supported.
Jack Emmett Lagoon	RT	300	3^rdSemester	WAA request 300 RT. Supported.
Jubilee Lake (Daylesford)	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	BDAA request RT. Supported.
Jubilee Lake (Skipton)	RT	250	3^rdSemester	BDAA request CEM. Supported.
Lismore Golf Club Lake	RT	-	-	BDAA request 100 RT. Drought affected – no stocking in 2005.
Nhill Lake	RT	300	3^rdSemester	200 RT stocked in 2004 WAA requests 500 RT supported in part.
Norval Dam	-	-	-	VRFish request stocking. Not supported.
Police Paddock Dam (Horsham)	RT	300	3^rdSemester	WAA request 300 RT. Supported – increased from 200.
Rable Park lake (Murtoa)	RT	300	3^rdSemester	Supported (omitted from cons 2005 process)
Tea Tree lake (Mortlake)	RT	200 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	Supported (omitted from cons 2005 process)
Victoria Lakes (Ballarat)	RT	400 x 2	2^nd & 3^rdSemester	BDAA request CEM. Supported.
Watonga Drive (Horsham)	RT	200	3^rdSemester	Lower priority than Police Paddock Dam. Supported

RT - Rainbow Trout

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.3 Departmental Native Fish

Water	Aust. Bass	Golden Perch	Silver Perch	Murray Cod	Comments
Bolac Lake	-	-	-	-	BDAA request 30,000 EP. Awaiting advice on Risk Assessment from Translocation Evaluation Panel.
Booroopki Swamp	-	-	-	-	WAA request 10,000 MC upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Bringalbert Lake	-	-	-	-	WAA request 5,000 GP upon drought recovery. Drought affected – no stocking in 2005/06.
Bullen Merri L.	-	-	-	-	CAAC request 25,000 AB. Not supported in 2005/06 – review in 2006 pending survey results – refer to sections 7.3.1.1 & 7.3.2.
Calembeen Lake (Creswick)	-	-	-	-	BDAA requested 500GP. Region to submit Initial Screening Form.
Carpolac L.	-	-	-	-	WAA request 5,000 GP upon recovery. Dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Charlegrark L.	-	-	-	-	WAA request 5,000 MC upon drought recovery. Drought affected – no stocking in 2005/06.
Colac L.	-	-	-	-	GDACA requested 10,000 estuary perch in 2004. Awaiting outcome of Lake Bolac Risk Assessment before any further consideration. GDACA request 10,000 AB in 2005. Not supported – outside their natural range.
Gillear Lake	-	-	-	-	WDAC request GP. Not supported – retain as trout fishery.
Green L.	-	-	-	-	WAA request 10,000 MC & 10,000 GP upon drought recovery. Dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Miga L.	-	-	-	-	WAA request 5,000 GP upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Pine Lake	-	-	-	-	WAA request 40,000 GP upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Rable Park (Murtoa)	-	-	-	-	WAA requested 2,000 GP. Supported - Initial Screening Form required.
Ratzcastle L.	-	-	-	-	WAA request 5,000 GP upon drought recovery. Currently dry – no stocking in 2005/06.
Rocklands Reservoir	-	-	-	-	WAA request 30,000 EP. Consideration deferred until GHCMA determines if predation by stocked fish is a viable carp control option, and if so, with what species.
Taylors L.	-	20,000	-	15,000	WAA request 15,000 MC & 20,000 GP. Supported.
Wimmera R.Elmhurst/Greens Creek area Dimboola Jeparit Horsham Glenorchy	- - - - -	5,000 10,000 5,000 5,000 5,000	- 5,000 - 5,000 -	- - - - -	WAA request 5,000 GP. Supported. EAC request 5,000 MC, 5,000 GP & catfish. Supported in part – GP only – survey to assess MC and catfish populations – refer to section 7.3.2. WAA request 10,000 GP & 5,000 SP. Supported. WAA request 5,000 GP & netting survey. Supported pending water quality. WAA request 5,000 GP & 5,000 SP but no further MC. Supported – boost GP to 10,000 if Jeparit site is unsuitable.WAA request 5,000 GP. Supported.
Yarriambiack Ck.	-	2, 000	-	-	WAA request 2,000 GP at Warracknabeal. Supported pending flow levels.

GP - Golden Perch	EP - Santuary Perch	MC - Murray Cod	AB - Australian Bass	SP - Silver Perch

7.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

7.2.4 Client Groups

Organisation	Water	Species	Number	Comments
BFAS	Wendouree Lake	BT	6,000	BFAS to supply as per permit conditions. Supported.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004

7.3.1.1 LAKE BULLEN MERRI

In 2004, Fisheries Victoria increased the stocking of Chinook salmon into Lake Bullen Merri. This was in response to requests from the Camperdown Angling Club for more salmonids, and improved supply of Chinook salmon from Narangi and PIRVic.

The increase in stocking was conditional on a follow-up survey to monitor the condition factor of salmonids. The survey would determine whether the increased stocking rate was adversely affecting the quality of the salmonid fishery.

A netting survey was undertaken in January 2005 and captured:

Species	Catch	Average length (mm)	Length range (mm)	Average weight (g)	Weight range (g)
Chinook salmon	38	370	264 - 535	771	262 - 2142
Brown trout	15	444	305 - 650	1290	455 - 2804
Rainbow trout	3	295	284 - 305	336	317 - 369
Atlantic salmon	0	-	-	-	-
Australian bass	223	206	119 - 355	215	42 - 952

The survey results suggest that the condition factor of salmonids has not changed significantly since the increase in stocking rate. On this basis, the higher stocking rate for Chinook salmon will be maintained in 2005.

Other relevant information gained from the 2005 survey included:

Almost 21% of the bass captured were at or above the legal minimum length of 25cm. This figure was 17% in the 2004 survey.
The relatively high catch of Chinook salmon indicates that, compared with other stocked salmonid species in the lake, they are surviving and growing well.
Consistent with previous surveys, the rainbow trout catch is low. This species does not appear to survive longer than 1 year after their release in Lake Bullen Merri.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004 (cont.)

7.3.1.2 KOONONGWOOTONG RESERVOIR

In early September 2004, Portland Fisheries Officers conducted a survey to determine the condition factor of stocked rainbow and brown trout. The survey captured:

Species	Catch	Weight range (g)
Brown trout	18	330 - 1400
Rainbow trout	1	650
Redfin	33	250 - 1200
Tench	30	N/a

The condition of the trout was generally poor with the average condition factor being 1.0.

A 2-year stocking trial with rainbow trout only is currently underway to investigate whether the quality of trout can be improved by amending the stocking rates and/or species composition.

Another survey is planned for September 2005, at which time consideration will again be given to whether brown trout stocking should resume. This consideration will involve consultation with local angling groups about their species preferences.

7.3.1.3 LAKE PURRUMBETE

Like Lake Bullen Merri above (see 3.1.1), salmonid stocking rates at Lake Purrumbete were increased in 2004 following requests from local angling groups.

A similar approach of monitoring the condition factor was agreed to as the primary means by which fisheries managers could determine if the increased stocking rates were affecting the quality of fish available to anglers.

In January 2005, PIRVic staff and local fisheries officers surveyed the lake and captured:

Species	Catch	Average length (mm)	Length range (mm)	Average weight (g)	Weight range (g)
Brown trout	17	520	270 - 710	1989	232 - 4686
Rainbow trout	5	283	255 - 300	255	198 - 284
Redfin	302	288	160 - 370	304	55 - 890
Tench	1	540	-	2636	-
Eel	1	620	-	499	-

The survey results suggest that the condition factor of salmonids has not changed significantly since the increase in stocking rate. On this basis, the higher stocking rate will be maintained in 2005.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004 (cont.)

7.3.1.3 TEA TREE LAKE

Tea Tree Lake is located within the western district township of Mortlake. It is a constructed wetland that receives town run-off. It is relatively small with several backwaters and two islands. The maximum depth of the lake is 2 metres. The margins of the lake contain a diverse array of emergent macrophytes, but there are no submerged macrophytes. The bed of the lake is hard clay, although softer depositional sediments occur in the deeper sections. Overflow from the lake makes its way to the Hopkins River via Stony Creek.

Tea Tree lake is stocked with rainbow trout on an annual basis. Stocking occurs as part of Fisheries Victoria's Small Waters program. Two hundred rainbow trout are stocked prior to the winter school holidays. The lake also contains a self-sustaining population of redfin.

In June 2004, Fisheries Officers received a report of carp being caught in Tea Tree Lake.

Due to the potential for fish in the lake to make their way into the Hopkins River during times of flood, a substantial netting survey was undertaken to determine the presence or otherwise of carp in the lake.

A total of 18 rainbow trout, 25 redfin and 2 yabbies were caught. No carp were caught. All of the trout were from a recent stocking and were released back into the water. The majority of the redfin were less than 20cm in length. The netting survey suggests that there is not a substantial population of carp in Tea Tree Lake.

7.3.1.5 BURRUMBEET CREEK AND BURRUMBEET LAKE

Prior to the drought, Burrumbeet Creek and adjacent lake were highly regarded recreational fisheries, supporting good populations of eels, native baitfish and redfin. In recent years, the carp population has increased significantly and the recreational fishery for the desirable species above has declined.

The aim of this survey was to determine the species composition in Burrumbeet Creek so that carp control options could be considered. The survey was undertaken in early October 2004. Mesh nets, fyke nets, baits nets and a seine net were used at 6 different sites focussing on the lower reaches of the creek where it was larger and deeper. All fish other than carp and tench were returned to the water.

The survey captured:

Species	Catch	Length range (g)
Carp	2	80 - 83
Shortfinned eel	69	200 - 850
Flathead gudgeon	24	30 - 102
Common galaxia	4	-
Tench	7	42 - 54
Smelt	30	-
Mosquito fish	1	-
Redfin	1	305

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004 (cont.)

7.3.1.6 ROCKLANDS RESERVOIR

In February 2005, Fisheries Officers from the South West Region surveyed the lake in response to a request from local stakeholders to increase trout stocking in an effort to increase the predationary pressure on the growing carp population.

The Glenelg River and its major impoundment, Rocklands Reservoir, has been subject to intense management study with respect to exclusion of carp from the river and control of numbers in the lake where they are proliferating.

The purpose of the survey was to monitor the K Factor (condition) of the existing trout population to determine the potential of the water to receive a substantially increased stocking.

In 2001 and 2002 it was stocked with 5,800 and 5,000 rainbow trout respectively. In 2003 and 2004, it received 22,000 and 10,000 brown trout respectively. All trout were stocked as yearlings.

The February survey captured:

Species	Number	Weight range (g)	Average weight (g)	Av K Factor
Brown trout	5	220 - 700	524	1.20
Redfin	6	160 - 1520	Not calculated	N/A
Carp	15	300 - 2540	Not calculated	N/A
Goldfish	16	60 - 440	Not calculated	N/A

The results suggest that:

The K Factor indicates 'fair' condition (acceptable to many anglers),
Carp and goldfish dominated the survey catch,
The stomach contents of the trout were predominantly juvenile redfin whilst the stomach contents of the redfin included yabbies. No carp were found in the stomachs of the surveyed fish,

The survey results indicate that the Department's current management approach is appropriate.

Additional trout may be considered if and when the water level rises when higher productivity can be expected. There is no evidence that suggest that trout are predating upon juvenile carp.

7.3.1.7 GELLIBRAND RIVER

The Gellibrand River and its many tributaries support a variety of introduced and native fish species, including river blackfish and the threatened Australian grayling. The aim of the survey was to determine the species composition in the Gellibrand River and its tributaries. Four sites were surveyed with fyke nets, drum nets, yabby pots and via angling.

Fisheries Officers captured a total of 109 fish. Short-finned eel, of various sizes, dominated the catch with one of the larger ones weighing 1.38 kg. Three tupong and four river blackfish were also captured. The largest blackfish weighed 1080 grams. One brown trout, weighing 850g, was captured at the Skinner Creek site below the bridge.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004 (cont.)

7.3.1.8 TAYLORS LAKE

In December 2004, Fisheries Officers from Horsham surveyed the lake in response to concerns expressed by the Wimmera Anglers Association about poor angler catches.

Taylors Lake has been subject to rapid fluctuation in levels due to its pivotal role in the Wimmera Mallee Stock and Domestic supply system, particularly in the current extended dry period.

The table below outlines its recent stocking history (fish numbers are fingerlings unless otherwise stated):

Stocking Year	Golden Perch	Murray Cod
1999/2000	15,000	8 (salvaged mature fish)
2000/2001	20,000	-
2001/2002	13,000	10,000
2003/2004	20,000	15,000

The December survey captured:

Species	Catch	Weight range (g)	Average weight (g)
Golden perch	2	1040 - 1140	1090
Murray cod	1	3640	-
Redfin	2	380 - 500	440
Carp	9	134 - 380	411
Goldfish	4	245 - 300	315

The results suggest that:

Reported poor returns are somewhat supported by low numbers of fish captured in survey,
An otolith sample of one of the golden perch indicated it was a 4 year old fish,
Golden perch and Murray cod persist in the lake but further survey might be warranted to confirm their abundance,
Carp and goldfish are relatively abundant,
Captured carp appear to be in two distinct cohorts of relatively small size,
Carp have the potential to develop into a significant problem over time in this water.

The survey results are inconclusive but indicate that the Department's stocking regime may need review after further monitoring. Future monitoring may need to include modified methods more likely to sample Murray cod and golden perch in a lake environment.

7.3.1.9 WIMMERA RIVER

For the past 6 years, Fisheries Victoria has stocked Murray cod into the upper reaches of the Wimmera River. Fisheries staff conducted two surveys, one in October and a second in November, with drum nets and fyke nets. The survey did not catch any fish. The survey will be repeated and considered along with angler catch reports from the Elmhurst and Stawell angling clubs. This information will be used to refine the current stocking strategy.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.1 Surveys undertaken since CONS 2004 (cont.)

7.3.1.10 LAKE FYANS SURVEY

In July 2004, Fisheries Officers from Horsham surveyed the lake to evaluate a stocking trial in which the performance of trout stocked as fingerlings could be compared to that of trout stocked as yearlings.

In each of 2002 and 2003, Lake Fyans was stocked with a mixture of yearlings (weighing about 100 grams each at the time of release) and fingerlings (weighing around 5 grams each). The yearlings were fin-clipped to differentiate them from the unmarked fingerlings.

The July survey captured:

Species	Number	Weight range (g)	Average weight (g)	% Fin-clipped
Brown trout	32	160 - 2420	1501	81
Rainbow trout	30	780 - 1740	1128	100
Redfin	8	120 - 500	367	-
Tench	1	720	-	-

The results suggest that:

100% of the rainbow trout captured in the survey were fin-clipped indicating that they were all stocked as yearling fish,
All but one rainbow trout caught in the survey were stocked in 2003 indicating that, similar to the rainbow trout fishery at Lake Wendouree and Lake Bullen Merri, stocked yearlings provide mostly short term fishing opportunities and rarely live to three years of age,
The majority of brown trout (81%) were fin-clipped indicating that they were stocked as yearlings,
Brown trout yearlings stocked in 2003 had reached weights of between 620 and 960 grams. By way of comparison, rainbow trout yearlings stocked in the same year had reached weights of between 780 and 1740 grams,
Brown trout yearlings stocked in 2002 had reached an average weight of 1860 grams,
There are small numbers of 4-year-old brown trout, stocked in 2001 as yearlings, which have grown to a maximum of 2.4 kg.

The survey results support the Department's current policy of stocking yearling trout, as opposed to the smaller fingerlings, in waters where larger predatory fish, such as redfin, already exist.

7.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS (cont.)

7.3.2 Surveys to be undertaken in 2005

Water	Reason for Survey
Wartook Reservoir	Regional survey to determine the success of brown trout stockings.
Lake Bullen Merri	PIRVic survey to monitor condition factor of stocked salmonids and quantify any impacts stemming from increased stocking rate. Survey methods should be altered to minimise by-catch of small bass.
Lake Purrumbete	Regional survey to monitor condition factor of stocked salmonids and quantify any impacts stemming from increased stocking rate.
Wimmera River	Regional survey to assess the catfish (and Murray cod) population above Glenorchy Weir.
Koonongwootong Reservoir	Regional survey to assess the success of a rainbow trout only stocking trial.

7.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

7.4.1 Fisheries

7.4.1.1 AUSTRALIAN BASS REGULATIONS

The bag limit for Australian bass at Lake Bullen Merri has been increased from 2 to 5. Unlike 'wild' populations in Gippsland rivers, Bullen Merri's Australian bass population has no conservation value. Unnecessarily limiting the harvest of this species in this water serves no purpose when the lake is stocked annually.

7.4.1.2 GLENELG SPINY CRAYFISH REGULATION CHANGES

In August 2004, revised fishing regulations for Glenelg Spiny Crayfish were introduced to ensure their sustainable harvest by recreational anglers.

This species has declined over the last 30 years because they are slow growing and unable to recover from stock depletion quickly. Although it is a small, isolated population centred in the Glenelg catchment, regulations allow a limited recreational harvest of the Glenelg spiny crayfish during a prescribed season, subject to strict bag and size limits and fishing gear restrictions.

However their recent listing as a threatened species has prompted a further reduction in the daily bag limit, from five to one. The existing ban on the take of berried (egg carrying) female crays has been extended to include all female Glenelg crayfish, whether or not they are in berry. The current minimum carapace length at 10 centimetres for Glenelg spiny crayfish will remain unchanged.

7.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

7.4.1.3 EVENING CONSULTATION MEETINGS

Despite the preference of north-east VRFish representatives for evening consultation meetings, those VRFish representatives attending the 2005 south west meeting expressed a desire to continue with daytime meetings.

7.4.2 Regional Issues

7.4.2.1 LAKE FYANS REDFIN

Regional staff reported that juvenile redfin collected from a minor fish kill at Lake Fyans, subsequently tested positive for EHNV.

7.4.3 VRFish

7.4.3.1 LAKE BOLAC ESTUARY PERCH STOCKING

A VRFish representative expressed a desire to see resolution of the Lake Bolac Angling Club's request for estuary perch stocking.

7.4.3.2 LAKE PURRUMBETE CLOSED SEASON

VRFish representatives have received correspondence from local Camperdown angling clubs expressing a desire to revoke the current boat based closed season that applies to Lake Purrumbete.

7.4.3.3 VRFISH REPRESENTATION

A VRFish representative outlined how VRFish is attempting to improve their ability to represent recreational anglers that do not belong to clubs by recruiting more unaffiliated members.

7.4.3.4 REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP MEETINGS

The Minister responsible for Fisheries, Bob Cameron, has provided 'in-principle' support for an RFL allocation to fund 5 regional forums at which VRFish will seek community views on significant issues affecting recreational. These issues will be considered in the review of the VRFish's 5-year vision.

7.4.3.5 LEGAL MINIMUM LENGTHS

A VRFish representative suggested that anglers take more care when measuring their fish to ensure they are retaining only those that are of legal minimum length.

7.4.4 Fisheries Co-Management Council

7.4.4.1 COUNCIL PROFILE

The representative from the FCC's Inland Fisheries Committee outlined a desire to improve the profile of the Council, and its role, amongst recreational fishers and sought feedback to that effect from the forum.

7.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

7.4.4 Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority

7.4.5.1 CATCHMENT WIDE FISHERIES SURVEY PROPOSAL

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA representative outlined a proposal to fill current knowledge gaps about fish populations via a catchment wide survey program.

7.4.5.2 CARP IN ROCKLANDS RESERVOIR

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA representative outlined their organisation's desire to contain carp in Rocklands Reservoir and limit their spread upstream and downstream. VRFish and Fisheries Victoria supported the CMA's approach of not supporting additional fish stocking to control carp until it can be demonstrated that such stockings will actually reduce carp numbers without adversely impacting on the desirable salmonid and redfin fisheries.

Appendix 1 - Fisheries Management Reports

A reporting series of Fisheries Victoria.

1986 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Survey and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. November 1986. D. Hume and C. Barnham
Annual Report 1986: Fish Stocking. November 1986. D. Hume and C. Barnham
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Populations Surveys, 1978-1985 and Recommendations for Future Trout Stocking. December 1986. A. Baxter
Biomass Estimates for Trout and Other Major Angling Species Caught During Stream Surveys by the Trout Management Group between 1978 and 1985. December 1986. A. Baxter
Recreational Fisheries Management Objectives for Victorian Fresh Waters. April 1987. C. Barnham
Catch and Effort Data for all the Major Angling Species Caught by the Trout Management Group During Gill Netting Surveys Conducted between 1978 and 1986 inclusive. April 1987. A. Baxter
1987 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. June 1987. C. Barnham and A. Baxter
Annual Report 1987: Fish Stocking. Part 1: Salmonid Stocking Plan 1988, with Stocking Notes, Stocking Instructions and Fin-clipped Fish Requirements. June 1987. C. Barnham and A. Baxter
1987/88 Fish Populations Surveys Requests by Regions. June 1987. C. Barnham and A. Baxter
Biomass Estimates for Trout and Major Angling Species Caught During Stream Surveys by the Trout Management Group in 1986. July 1987. A. Baxter
Annual Report 1987: Fish Stocking. Part 2: Native Fish Stocking Plan 1987/8, with Native Fish Stocking History 1982/3 to 1986/7. August 1987. C. Barnham
Catch and Effort Data for all the Major Angling Species Caught by the Trout Management Group during Gill Netting Surveys of Streams conducted between 1978 and 1986 inclusive. October 1987. A. Baxter
Annual Report 1987: Fish Stocking. Part 3: Salmonid Stockings Plans 1988 to 1990, with Salmonid Stocking History 1983 to 1987, and Summary of Fin-clipped Fish Stockings. December 1987. C Barnham and A Baxter
The Trout Fingerling Stocking Trials in Birch Creek, Hepburn Lagoon and Lake Modewarre, 1982-1984. November 1987. A. Baxter
Creel Survey Report 1984-85. June 1987. D. Hume
Creel Survey Report 1985-86. June 1987. D. Hume
Creel Survey Report 1986-87. June 1987. D. Hume
Creel Survey Report: Toolondo Reservoir 1987-88. October 1991. D Hume
Results of the diary creel survey for the 1961/62 fishing season in Victoria. D Hume. October 1991.
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1987. January 1988. A. Baxter, S. Vallis and C. Barnham
1988 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Survey and other Freshwater Fish Management Issues. September 1988. P Rogan, A Baxter, C Barnham & S Vallis
Blue Rock Lake: an example of how fin-clipped trout have helped to manage the trout fishery. April 1988. A Baxter, S Vallis and C Barnham
Snobs Creek Freshwater Fisheries Research Station and Hatchery: Native Fish Research, production and Distribution 1988/89. June 1988. F Craig, P Cadwallader, J Anderson, G Gooley, P Rogan, C Barnham and P Tossol
Salmonid Stocking Plan 1989, with Stocking Notes, Stocking Instructions and Fin-clipped Fish Requirements. September 1988. P Rogan, A Baxter & C Barnham
Salmonid Stocking Plan 1989 to 1991, with Salmonid Stocking History 1984 to 1988. January 1989. P Rogan, A Baxter & C Barnham
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1988. January 1989. A Baxter, S Vallis & C Barnham
1989 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Survey and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. July 1989. J Johnstone and C Barnham.
Salmonid Stocking Plans 1990-1992, Stocking Instructions and Stocking Notes 1990, and Review of Stocking Plan 1989. May 1989. J Johnstone, A Baxter and C Barnham
Survey of Opinion on Trout Fishery Regulation - 1989. March 1990. C Barnham & B Tunbridge. (30-P) - Principal Report. (30-S) - Supplementary Report.
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1989. January 1990. A Baxter, S Vallis and C Barnham.
Report on Census of Angling Clubs 1990. June 1990. C Barnham & B Tunbridge.
1990 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Survey and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. September 1990. B Tunbridge & C Barnham.
Spiny Freshwater Crayfish Management Strategy. May 1990. J Barker.
Salmonid Stocking 1989-1993: 1989 Stocking Report; 1990 Review of Stocking Plan; 1991 Stocking Plan with Notes and Instructions; 1992-93 Stocking Plans. July 1990. C Barnham & B Tunbridge.
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1990. A Baxter, S Vallis and P Quinlan. January 1991.
Ad Hoc Fish Population Surveys 1990. A Baxter. February 1991
1991 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. J Barker. July 1991
Management of the Recreational Salmonid Fishery in Lake Wendouree, Ballarat, Victoria. A Baxter. August 1991
Creel Survey Manual. D Hume (Ed.) October 1991
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1991. A Baxter & S Vallis. January 1992
1992 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. P Cadwallader & C Barnham. May 1992
The Recreational Trout Fishery in Toolondo Reservoir and Recommendations on Future Trout Stockings. A Baxter. December 1996
The Spiny Freshwater Crayfish Monitoring Program, 1990. J Barker. April 1992
Salmonid Stocking 1991-94: 1991 Stocking Report; 1992 Stocking Plan with Notes and Instructions; 1993-94 Stocking Plans. May 1992. C Barnham
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1992. A Baxter & S Vallis. January 1993
Salmonid Stocking 1992-95: 1992 Stocking Report; 1993 Stocking Plan with Notes and Instructions; 1994-95 Stocking Plans. May 1993. C Barnham
1993 Consultations with Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. P Cadwallader & C Barnham. July 1993
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1993. A Baxter & S Vallis. January 1994
Report on Creel Surveys, Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri, 1 December 1992 to 30 November 1993. May 1994. S Eddy & I Smith
1994 Consultations with Areas on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. P Cadwallader & C Barnham. July 1994
A Summary of Trout Management Group Fish Population Surveys 1994. A Baxter & S Vallis. January 1995
Report on Creel Surveys, Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri, 1 December 1993 to 30 November 1994. February 1995. S Eddy & I Smith
1995 Consultations with Areas on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. R. Winstanley, A. Baxter & C. Barnham. June 1995
Report on Creel Surveys, Lake Purrumbete, Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Murdeduke, 1 December 1994 to 30 November 1995. W. Skene & I Smith. April 1996
1996 Consultations with Areas on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Freshwater Fisheries Management Issues. A. Baxter, R. Winstanley & C. Barnham. May 1996
Marine Creel Survey Report: Lorne to Bay of Islands, October 1994 to April 1995. P. Millar. June 1996.
Toolondo Reservoir Creel Survey Report: 1 January 1995 to 30 June 1996. T. Overman & D. Heil. November 1996
1997 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. A. Baxter, R. Winstanley & C. Barnham. April 1997
Marine Creel Survey Report: Anglesea to Bay of Islands, May 1995 to April 1997. P. Millar. February 1998.
1998 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. A. Baxter, R. Winstanley & C. Barnham. April 1998
Report on Creel Surveys, Lake Purrumbete, Lake Murdeduke and Lake Bullen Merri, 1 December 1995 to 30 November 1997. S. Eddy. 1998
1999 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. A. Baxter & R. Winstanley. April 1999
Summary of Fish Catches Taken During MaFRI Inland Fish Assessment Surveys, December 1997 – December 1998. A. Baxter. April 1999.
2000 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. M. Ainsworth & R. Winstanley. March 2000
2001 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. M. Ainsworth & R. Winstanley. March 2001
2002 Consultations with DNRE Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. M. Ainsworth & G. Hayes. March 2002.
2003 Consultations with DPI Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. M. Ainsworth & G. Jones . May 2003.
2004 Consultations with DPI Regions on Fish Stocking, Fish Population Surveys and other Recreational Fisheries Management Issues. M. Ainsworth & S. Mcglashan. April 2004.

Appendix 2 - Organisational Abbreviations

ADAC	Allansford and District Angling Club
AFTA	Australian Fishing Tackle Association
ARI	Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research
B&DFFC	Bendigo & District Fly Fishers Inc.
BAC	Beaufort Angling Club
BOAC	Boort Angling Club
BADAC	Balmoral & District Angling Club
BDAA	Ballarat and District Angling Association
BDFC	Black Dog Creek Big Game Fishing Club
CAC	Corryong Angling Club
CAAC	Camperdown Angling Club
CAS	Casterton Angling Society
CBAC	Cobden Angling Club
COAC	Colac Angling Club
CDAC	Cohuna and District Angling Club
CFF	Cardinia Fly Fishers
CMA	Catchment Management Authority
DAC	Donald Angling Club
DRAC	Derrinallum Anglers Club
DPI	Department of Primary Industries
EAC	Elmhurst Angling Club
EMSFC	Echuca Moama Sport Fishing Club
EPA	Environment Protection Agency
FCC	Fisheries Co-Management Council
FV	Fisheries Victoria
GAC	Gippsland Angling Club
GDACA	Geelong and District Angling Clubs Association
GMW	Goulburn Murray Water
GVAAC	Goulburn Valley Association of Angling Clubs
GVSC	Goulburn Valley Sport Fishing Club
HAC	Heyfield Angling Club
HFF	Horsham Fly Fishers
HPA	Harrietville Progress Association
IFC	Inland Fisheries Committee of the Fisheries Co-Management Council
ILC	Inglewood Lions Club
INFC	Inglewood Football Club
KAC	Kyabram Angling Club
KPA	Koondrook Progress Association
KDAC	Koroit & District Angling Club
KVFC	Kiewa Valley Fishing Club
LAAC	Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club
LAC	Lismore Angling Club
LBAC	Lake Bolac Angling Club
LLAC	Lang Lang Angling Club
LRFC	Lowhead Road Fishing Club
MDSFC	Myrtleford and District Sportfishing Club
MNAAC	Mid Northern Association of Angling Clubs
M&NCAA	Midlands & North Central Association of Angling Clubs
MSC	Murrundindi Shire Council
NAC	Nagambie Angling Club
NFC	Numurkah Angling Club
NGSC	Northern Grampians Shire Council
NSFFC	Northern Suburbs Fly Fishing Club
PIRVic	Primary Industries Research Victoria
PFAC	Port Fairy Angling Club
PAC	Purrumbete Angling Club
RDAC	Rochester & District Angling Club
RHFF	Rex Hunt Futurefish Foundation
RWRE	Ray White Real Estate
SAC	Skipton Angling Club
SEAC	Strathbogie Euroa Angling Club
SWDAAC	South Western District Association of Angling Clubs
TAG	Tatong Angling Group
TDFC	Tatura & District Angling Club
UAC	Undera Angling Club
WAA	Wimmera Anglers Association
WAC	Woodend Angling Club
WDAC	Warrnambool & District Angling Club
WFF	Warrnambool Fly Fishers Club
WFFC	Wangaratta Fly Fishing Club
YKAC	Yackandandah Angling Club
YVFF	Yarra Valley Fly Fishers

Regional Fisheries Consultations Meeting Outcomes - 2005

FISH STOCKING, FISH POPULATION SURVEYS AND OTHER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ISSUES

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

1.2 These meetings:

1.3 Angler Input

1.4 Small Waters

1.5 Meeting Reports

1.6 Acknowledgments

1.7 Contacts

2. STATEWIDE

2.1 Ten Waters Trout Stocking Program

2.2 On-line Guide to the Inland Waters of Victoria

2.3 Australian Federation of Coarse Anglers Association

2.4 Impacts of Drought on Departmental Fish Stockings

2.5 Impacts of Fire on North East and Gippsland Fisheries

2.5 Impacts of Fire on North East and Gippsland Fisheries (cont.)

2.6 Appointment of New Executive Director for Fisheries Victoria

2.7 Fish Habitat Protection – Fisheries Notice

2.8 Inland Fisheries Management Plans

2.9 RFL Funding for Fish Stocking

3. GIPPSLAND

3.1 FISH STOCKINGS

3.1.1 Departmental Salmonids

3.1.2 Small Waters

3.1.3 Departmental Native Fish

3.2 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

3.2.1 Fish Survey Results from CONS 2004

3.2.1.1 SNOWY RIVER RESEARCH

3.2.1.2 MACALISTER RIVER CREEL SURVEY

3.2.1.3 HYLAND LAKE

3.2.1.4 TRARALGON CREEK

3.2 Fish Population Surveys (cont)

3.2.2 Requests for Surveys in 2005

3.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

3.3.1 Fisheries Victoria

3.3.1.1 AUSTRALIAN BASS PRODUCTION

3.3.1.2 CLIFTON CREEK FISH KILL

3.3 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont)

3.3.2 Region

3.3.3 VRFish

3.3.4 Fisheries Co-Management Council

3.3.5 Futurefish Foundation

4. NORTH EAST

4.1 CREEL SURVEYS

4.1.1 Eildon Pondage

4.1 CREEL SURVEYS (cont.)

4.1.2 Lake Hume

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS

4.2.1 Departmental Salmonids

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.2 Departmental Salmonids (cont.)

4.2.2 Small Waters

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.3 Departmental Native Fish

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.4 Client Groups

4.2.3.1 SALMONIDS

4.2 FISH STOCKINGS (cont.)

4.2.3 Client Groups (cont.)

4.2.3.2 NATIVE FISH

4.3 FISH POPULATION SURVEYS

4.3.1 Surveys undertaken in 2004

4.3.1.1 FIFTEEN MILE CREEK

4.3.2 Surveys to be undertaken in 2005

4.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

4.4.1 Fisheries Victoria

4.4.1.1 LAKE HUME & LAKE MULWALA

4.4.1.2 KERFORD LAKE SURVEY

4.4 OTHER MANAGEMENT ISSUES (cont.)

4.4.1 Fisheries Victoria (cont)

4.4.1.3 LAKE DARTMOUTH MACQUARIE PERCH REGULATION CHANGES

4.4.2 Region

4.4.2.1 UPPER GOULBURN RIVER TROUT POPULATIONS

4.4.3 VRFish

4.4.3.1 EVENING CONSULTATION MEETINGS IN THE NORTH EAST

5. NORTH WEST

5.1 FISH STOCKINGS

5.1.1 Departmental Salmonids