Victoria’s largest native fish hatchery is now under construction at Snobs Creek.

Minister Responsible for Fisheries Joe Helper said the work would see an upgrade of new and existing facilities and development of new capacity at the site resulting in an increased capacity for the breeding of native species, including Murray cod, golden perch and the endangered Macquarie perch and trout cod.

“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to enhance recreational fishing opportunities for all Victorians,” Mr Helper said.

“This will be the biggest upgrade at Snobs Creek since native fish were first produced in the 1980’s.

“This $1.3 million investment will significantly boost native fish numbers and the reliability of supply, to deliver on the Government’s commitment to increase fish stocking by 30 per cent over four years.

“It is expected the new facility will be fully operational by the start of the native fish breeding season in spring this year and there will be no disruption to current fish production.”

Mr Helper said the upgrade would involve several new brood fish ponds to accommodate larger mature Murray cod and golden perch.

“Four new plankton ponds are also under construction which will be used to rear the native fish larvae until they reach ‘fingerling’ size and are released into Victorian waters,” he said.

“To complete the upgrade, a refurbishment of existing native fish production infrastructure including pumps, pipes, recirculation systems, troughs and tanks are also part of this project.”

Member for Seymour Ben Hardman said the development of the new facility would provide more than 50 jobs during the construction phase and in future fish production.

“The construction of the site is further evidence of the Brumby Labor Government’s commitment to support communities through rural and regional Victoria,” Mr Hardman said.

“Snobs Creek has long been synonymous with fish breeding; this investment continues that association.”

Fisheries Victoria Executive Director Anthony Hurst said the new technology and improved fish production facilities would provide a more secure supply of golden perch, Murray cod and other native species for stocking into Victoria’s lakes and rivers.

The Snobs Creek site, including the Freshwater Discovery Centre, will be temporarily closed to the public for the duration of works for health and safety reasons.