Mark Maher from Kurrajong, John Creenaune from Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge, Angus Boulton from Edward-Wakool Angling Association, and Roseanne Farrant from Deniliquin Kolety Lagoons Landcare Group.
The Edward River received another major boost on Tuesday, with 30,000 golden perch (yellowbelly) released as part of the Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge’s ongoing restocking program.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The latest release continues a significant investment in native fish recovery across the region.
Since 2023, funds raised through the Fishing Challenge have supported the release of 115,000 golden perch, 6500 eel‑tailed catfish, and 540kg of Murray cod through the Adopt‑a‑Cod sponsorship program.
And it’s not just Deni clubs stocking local waterways, with Jerilderie Fishing Club released 8000 yellowbelly fingerlings into Billabong Creek, the Tocumwal Community Development Committee released 8333 yellowbelly in the Murray River and Tocumwal Angling Club adding 15,000 Murray cod fingerlings to the Murray River in the past fortnight.
Kyalite, Moulamein and Barham also contributed with yellowbelly releases, highlighting a coordinated regional approach to improving native fish numbers.
All funds raised by the Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge go directly back into the river and surrounding lagoons, not only supporting restocking but also habitat improvement, bank protection, revegetation and stabilisation work to reduce the impact of river traffic.
The NSW Fisheries Community Native Fish Stocking Grants Program further strengthens the effort by matching every dollar raised with two dollars, significantly expanding what local fundraising can achieve.
The fish released this week were sourced from Tara Native Fish Hatchery.
Clients from Kurrajong attended the event, taking the opportunity to learn about yellowbelly and the importance of native fish conservation.
The Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge itself has quickly become one of the region’s most popular community events.
Held annually, it attracts anglers of all ages and skill levels, with categories for adults and juniors, major prizes, and a strong focus on education and river stewardship.
Beyond the competition, the challenge has built a reputation for fun, family‑friendly participation and for channelling every cent raised back into the health of the local waterways.
Get your ticket for the Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge, or show your support by buying a raffle ticket online at www.edwardfishingchallenge.com.au.
30,000 yellowbelly fingerlings were released into the Edward River on Tuesday, January 20.
