Catfish Comeback at the Billabong
In early April, a strong wave of community-driven environmental action swept through Billabong Creek at Conargo, as YACTAC, in partnership with Yarkuwa and the Refreshing Rivers program, undertook a series of initiatives aimed at restoring waterway health. One major highlight was the release of over 1,000 eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus) fingerlings, supplied by Ricko Cunningham from the Narrabri Fish Farm. The release took place at key locations including Conargo and Cape Jerilderie, forming part of a multi-pronged approach to improve ecological conditions at the Conargo case study site.
Loretta Marriott, from Jeithi Jerilderie Aboriginal Corporation, performed a Welcome to Country at The Cape, grounding the day’s activities in deep cultural connection and respect for Country. The event was a great example of welcoming back species that were once commonplace in the area.
Efforts also include ongoing carp removal, the planting of filtering aquatic vegetation such as tall spike rush, and revegetation along riparian zones. The local community has been central to the success of these activities. The catfish release was supported by the Jeithi Jerilderie Aboriginal Group, Yarkuwa’s Kolety-Werkul Rangers, and Conargo Public School, who came together to reintroduce these native species into the waterway.
A big thank you goes out to Ricko and all those who took part in the catfish release and revegetation activities, whose passion and teamwork continue to breathe new life into the region’s waterways.
