A Day of Fun and Environmental Conservation: Wyndham's Catch a Carp Day

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 30th, as the Werribee River Association (WRA) hosts its annual Catch a Carp Day at Manor Lakes Reserve. This free event is a perfect opportunity for locals to enjoy a day of fishing, learn some new skills, and contribute to the vital task of tackling an invasive species that threatens the delicate balance of Wyndham's waterways.

The Invasive Carp Problem: A Threat to Native Ecosystems

Carp, an invasive species introduced to Australia in the 19th century, have wreaked havoc on native aquatic ecosystems across the country. These fish are voracious eaters, quickly outcompeting native species for food and resources. Their disruptive behavior extends beyond competition, as they stir up sediment, damaging the habitat of native fish and plants.

“I’m sure that anybody who fishes knows how awful carp are, they can very quickly take over waterways,” says Jess Fairfax, WRA programs manager. “They are just detrimental to native aquatic plants and animals, they’ll eat the juveniles of the native fish that are already quite endangered.”

A Day of Fun and Education: Learn about Fishing and Contribute to Conservation

Catch a Carp Day is more than just a fishing competition; it’s a chance for locals to learn about the importance of environmental conservation. The WRA will be on hand to share information about carp, their impact on the environment, and how to help combat their spread.

Catch a Carp Day: More Than Just a Fishing Competition

The event offers a variety of activities, including fishing competitions for both adults and children. Prizes will be awarded for the biggest carp by weight and length, the most carp caught, and the best catch that is not a carp. A free barbeque will be provided with vegan and vegetarian options. There's something for everyone to enjoy, making it a great family-friendly event.

Getting Involved: How to Register and Participate

To participate in the competitions, anglers need to register at the registration tent between 10am and 12.30pm. Bait, tackle, and rod hire are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Organizers recommend using corn as bait to avoid accidentally catching other wildlife such as turtles.

A Day of Fun and Sun: Preparing for Catch a Carp Day

While some shade will be available at the event, attendees are encouraged to bring their own tents and umbrellas for extra protection from the sun. Remember to stay sun smart by wearing sunscreen and hats. With a day filled with fishing, food, and fun, Catch a Carp Day is sure to be a memorable experience for all. But it's more than just a fun outing – it's an opportunity to play a role in protecting the health of Wyndham's waterways for generations to come.

Catch a Carp Day: A Community Effort to Protect Our Waterways

The WRA’s initiative to host Catch a Carp Day demonstrates their dedication to preserving the environment. Their commitment to educating the community about the invasive carp problem and providing opportunities for locals to participate in efforts to control their spread is truly commendable. By participating in events like Catch a Carp Day, we can all contribute to protecting the delicate balance of our natural ecosystems.