The Andrews Labor Government has stocked Victorian waterways, including in the Ballarat region, with a record 10 million fish over the past year, setting a new nationwide record.

The initiative is part of the Labor Government’s $35 million Go Fishing plan, funded by recreational fishing licence fees, and includes one million Murray cod and golden perch stocked in Lake Eildon, Lake Eppalock and Rocklands Reservoir.

The Victorian Fisheries Authority grew a majority of the fish at the Snobs Creek hatchery near Eildon and the recently completed Arcadia hatchery on the banks of the Goulburn River near Shepparton.

Of the fish stocked in the past year, 8.1 million were native species such as Murray cod, golden perch, Australian bass, estuary perch and the endangered Macquarie perch. The remaining 1.9 million were trout and salmon including rainbow, brown, cheetah and tiger, along with Chinook.

At Lake Wendouree, 23,000 fish were stocked into the waterway, enhancing fishing opportunities for local and visiting anglers. Other locations in the region to receive fish include Hepburn Lagoon, Newlyn Reservoir, Pykes Creek Reservoir, The Gong, Haddon Reservoir, Mooroobool Reservoir, Bostock Reservoir, Esmond Lake and Victoria Lakes.

Since 2014, the Andrews Labor Government has invested $71 million into the recreational fishing sector, which is worth over $3.9 billion to the Victorian economy, and supports 33,000 jobs.

This investment includes removing commercial net fishing from Port Phillip Bay and the Gippsland Lakes, building a new fish hatchery at Arcadia, creating more fish habitats in rivers and bays, extending the Golden Tag competition and encouraging participation through free VicFishKids events.

For a breakdown of fish stocking locations, visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/10millionfish

Quotes attributable to Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne

“The stocking of 10 million fish means Victoria’s inland fisheries continue to thrive, aiding in the recovery of threatened species such as trout cod and Macquarie perch.”

“We know how important recreational fishing is to the Victorian economy. These fish stockings will encourage tourism to towns right across the state and, in turn, support local businesses.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“Lake Wendouree is the heart of Ballarat and having more fish stocked into our lake is exciting for both local and visiting anglers looking to reel in a catch.”

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“These stockings across the region are vital to supporting the community and securing fish supply for years to come, ensuring destination anglers visit and explore our towns.”