Better boat ramps for Sunraysia anglers

by Department of Environment and Primary Industries on 16 Aug 2013 Upgrades to seven boat ramps on the Victorian side of the Murray River, between Robinvale and Berribee, have improved access for freshwater anglers chasing Murray cod and golden perch. Member for Mildura Peter Crisp said that while the Murray River was managed by New South Wales, improved access from the southern shore is of great benefit to many Victorian anglers who fish this area.

'In addition to better access to this iconic Australian river, we have also upgraded the boat ramp at Lake Cullulleraine, which is stocked annually with native fish to improve freshwater fishing opportunities,' Mr Crisp said.

All-weather concrete ramps between 10 and 30 metres long, and with improved boat trailer entry angles, have replaced earthen ramps that eroded or became inaccessible after flooding and heavy rains.

The upgraded ramps are at Higgins Cutting, Berribee, Walsh Bend, Fireman’s Bend, Abbotsford, Spencer’s Bend, Higgins Road and Lake Cullulleraine.

Boating anglers are encouraged to use the upgraded ramps instead of informal launching spots to minimise impacts on the bankside environment.

Mr Crisp said this stretch of the Murray River had long been recognised as a productive fishery and the $60,000 investment in better boat ramps was expected to deliver social and economic benefits for businesses and communities along the Victorian border.

'The upgrades were undertaken by the Mallee Catchment Management Authority and Parks Victoria, which has also improved car and trailer parking, signage, picnic areas and access roads to many of the boat ramps to meet the growing popularity of River Red Gum parks,' he said.

The eight improved boat ramps were funded by the Victorian Coalition Government’s $16 million Recreational Fishing Initiative, which has delivered over 70 projects worth more than $2.25 million to improve fishing access and facilities throughout Victoria.

The Initiative is also stocking more fish, building fishing reefs, undertaking more research and strengthening fisheries enforcement and education.

'We want to keep this state a top fishing destination for the 721,000 Victorians who fish annually and the many tourists who travel here seeking a quality fishing experience,' Mr Crisp said.

For more information about the Initiative visit DEPI website