Trialling new methods for assessing rare fish populations

The Adjungbilly Creek in the Upper Riverina Highlands is home to one of 4 remaining populations of the endangered Macquarie Perch. Over the past 10 years with the help of DPI Fisheries and Charles Sturt University we have been monitoring the population of 'Maccas' using electrofishing and fyke net methods.

There are of course disadvantages in these methods with the percentage of fish captured influenced by factors such as the size of the fish, conductivity and flow rates.

Recently we trialled a fairly cost effective method of spotlighting. With the help from traditional owners from the Brungle Tumut Local Aboriginal Land Council, 2 sites on the Adjungbilly were surveyed. A total of 6 Maccas were identified including young of year.

Latest news and events

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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February 22, 2025

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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February 14, 2025

Southern Pygmy Perch Confirmed in Little Billabong Creek

A single Southern Pygmy Perch was netted in Little Billabong Creek today! The species was initially detected using eDNA sampling of the creek in February 2024, and a new population of this endangered fish species has now been fully confirmed.

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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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