Catfish Comeback at the Billabong

In early April, a strong wave of community-driven environmental action swept through Billabong Creek at Conargo, as YACTAC, in partnership with Yarkuwa and the Refreshing Rivers program, undertook a series of initiatives aimed at restoring waterway health. One major highlight was the release of over 2,000 eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus) fingerlings, supplied by Ricko Cunningham from the Narrabri Fish Farm.

The release took place at key locations including Conargo and Cape Jerilderie, forming part of a multi-pronged approach to improve ecological conditions at the Conargo case study site. Efforts also include ongoing carp removal, the planting of filtering aquatic vegetation such as tall spike rush, and revegetation along riparian zones.

The local community has been central to the success of these activities. The catfish release was supported by the Jeithi Jerilderie Aboriginal Group, Yarkuwa’s Kolety-Werkul Rangers, and various school groups who came together to reintroduce these native species into the waterway.  

A big thank you goes out to Ricko and all those who took part in the catfish release and revegetation activities, whose passion and teamwork continue to breathe new life into the region’s waterways.

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March 25, 2025

Wildlife of the night: Discover the hidden wonders

Join local ecologist Dr. Mason Crane for an unforgettable guided night walk along Morleys Creek and the Tumut Wetlands, where we'll uncover the magical world of wildlife both in the bush and the waterways. Discover what goes on in the bush when the sun goes down. April 15th & 16th 2025.

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Mussel Muster on the Billabong

Dive into the fascinating world of freshwater mussels with Dr Nicole McCasker, mussel expert, from Charles Sturt University, and local cultural knowledge holder Ros Lockhart. This is a family-friendly event, so come along and help us discover more about these incredible creatures.

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The Refreshing Rivers Program is a collaboration between government, industry, research, and community organisations, led by Local Land Services. This Program has been assisted by the New South Wales Government through its Environmental Trust.

The Refreshing Rivers Program works on Country that always was and always will be Aboriginal land. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters, and we pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

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