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.
Through the efforts of YACTAC, Yarkuwa, the Refreshing Rivers program, and Kolety-Werkul Rangers, native plants are now taking root in and around the waterway, blending cultural knowledge, local collaboration, and environmental care to create a healthier, more vibrant creek for future generations
LEARN MORELEARN MOREJoin 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.
LEARN MORELEARN MOREDive 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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