Signs about safe fishing practises have been installed along a stretch of the Lower Werribee River, to help protect the waterway’s platypus population.
Melbourne Water has partnered with Wyndham council, The Werribee River Association and Victorian Fisheries Authority to “Protect our Platypus”.
The signs also remind anglers that it’s illegal to use Opera House nets in all Victorian public and private waters.
Melbourne Water’s regional services team leader (Werribee), Thomas Hurst, said entanglement in rubbish and fishing equipment such as old fishing lines and nets could severely injure or kill aquatic animals, such as platypuses.
“Melbourne Water encourages Victorians to enjoy Melbourne’s waterways and the recreational opportunities they provide,” Mr Hurst said.
“We are asking the community to do their part to continue their help in protecting this vulnerable, and iconic, species from threat.”
Werribee River Keeper John Forrester congratulated the authorities for their efforts to protect the river’s platypus population.
“Our data shows nearly 40 per cent of our platypus have injuries and death caused by soft or hard circular plastic, litter or rubbish,” Mr Forrester said.
Wyndham’s environment and sustainability portfolio holder, Cr Heather Marcus, said improving the health of the Werribee River through the protection of native habitat was a key action in the council’s City Forest and Habitat Strategy.
“We have been planting many native trees, shrubs and grasses along the riverbanks to provide food and shelter for native animals, while preventing erosion,” Cr Marcus said.
“This is important because the banks of the river are where the platypus build their burrows.”
See melbournewater.com.au/community-and-education/waterwatch-programs/platypus-census for details.
