Josh Standen of the Kyalite Fishing Club, Braeden Lampard from Austral, Mildura-based fish care volunteer Garry and EWAA members Dr John Conallin and Josh Campbell.
The Edward‑Wakool Angling Association (EWAA) has spent the winter months out on the water checking on one of the river’s most iconic species, the Murray Crayfish.
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After a blackwater event in 2010, a fishing moratorium was placed on Murray crayfish until the population recovered.
Over recent years, EWAA has conducted surveys in the Edward River at Deniliquin, where crayfish populations were found to be low.
Building on that research, members extended their efforts this year to Kyalite, working alongside Austral Research and Consulting and the Kyalite Fishing Club.
Unfortunately, no crayfish were captured at the four Kyalite sites.
A follow‑up survey at Moulamein produced a single crayfish, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and recovery planning.
EWAA is leading the initiative to assess local crayfish populations and establish a scientific baseline for a long‑term recovery strategy.
This includes potential translocation and restocking of crayfish back into the Edward River.
EWAA member Dr John Conallin said the association “intends to apply for funding and collaborate with government agencies to support future restocking and translocation efforts”.
The long‑term aim is to maintain and strengthen the connection between crayfish and local communities, and ultimately, to re‑establish a recreational fishing for the species that once thrived in the Edward system.
The Moulamein cray had some impressive spikes.
John Conallin assessing the health of the crayfish.
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