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Boy and man fishing by a river

Catch A Carp event educates locals about responsible fishing

With increased discarded fishing lines, illegal yabby traps being found along the Werribee River, and the rising threat of invasive Carp to native species, Melbourne Water has devised a free community event to tackle two problems simultaneously. 

The Catch a Carp for Platypus event, to be hosted at Peppertree Park in Bacchus Marsh, will see the community actively participating in the removal of Carp from the Werribee River while learning how to fish responsibly. 

Boy and man fishing by a river

“The Catch A Carp event will teach people how to fish responsibly using the Carp as the target species, delivering one action with a double benefit for the platypus and other aquatic animals,” said Madeline Taylor, Waterwatch Coordinator, Melbourne Water. 

The invasive Carp species degrade waterways by stirring up mud and competing with native species for food.  

"Every Carp caught helps restore the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems and improve habitats that platypus and other species depend on,” said Ms Taylor. 

Melbourne Water has seen increasing incidents of discarded fishing equipment along the Werribee River, a practice it hopes to eliminate through community education. 

Ms Taylor says that discarded fishing tackle and illegal yabby traps (Opera House traps) harm aquatic animals, such as the platypus.  

“Discarded fishing gear can be deadly, entangling and drowning platypus and other threatened species. As a community, we can eliminate these unnecessary animal deaths through responsible fishing practices,” said Ms Taylor. 

The Catch A Carp event is not just educational, but also a fun and inclusive experience. It is free to attend and is open to people of all ages and abilities. 

“Whether people want to learn how to fish or sharpen their skills, the event is open to anyone from the community who wants to gain a deeper understanding of their local waterways and the importance of responsible fishing.” 

“For those who don’t want to participate in fishing, we will have local experts doing a presentation and an interactive macroinvertebrate activity." 

Fishing gear and bait will be provided, or attendees can bring their own equipment. 

"Join us at this free, fun event to learn how responsible fishing can protect platypus; together, we can shape a healthier future for our waterways," said Ms Taylor. 

Event info 

Catch A Carp, hosted by Melbourne Water 

Location: Peppertree Park Bacchus Marsh (64-78 Grant St, Bacchus Marsh), near the carpark by the Aquatic Centre 

Date: Saturday 11 January 2025 

Time: 10am – 12midday 

 Register via https://events.humanitix.com/catch-a-carp 

Fishing gear provided or BYO. 

 

Fast facts: 

  • Melbourne Water is responsible for the care of 25,000kms of waterways.  

  • Carp feed on many of the same macroinvertebrates (mussels, worms, aquatic insect larvae) as platypus, reducing food availability.  

  • Carp uproot aquatic plants, stir up sediment, and increase algae growth, degrading habitats for platypus and other aquatic biodiversity.  

  • Removing Carp from waterways improves the health of local aquatic ecosystems and helps platypus populations. 

 
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