Brumbys Creek Anglers Access Project Completed

Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT) has completed the Brumbys Creek Anglers Access Project with funding provided by the Australian Government's Recreational Fishing Community Grants Programme (RFCGP). The project is a pilot for the implementation of further access plans in Tasmania. The Brumbys Creek Anglers Access Project has provided improved access, information, safety, amenity, and facilities for anglers at this recognised world class fishery. The provision of supporting brochures and maps and the availability of this information in both hard copy and via the IFS website will enhance the appeal of the fishery and availability of information to all anglers.

RFCGP funds have supplemented the in kind and cash contributions from the Fly Fishers Club, Hydro Tasmania, Inland Fisheries Service, Northern Midlands Council, and the Cressy Research Farm, and have been used for stiles, directional and interpretative signs, minor road works, weed removal and brochure production.

AAT has coordinated the project and worked closely with Hydro Tasmania as the landowner and the other project partners to implement the project plan for Brumbys Creek in a coordinated and consultative manner.

The project has delivered improved access to all three weirs, installation of 11 purpose built fence stiles that meet Australian standards, construction of two footbridges, drainage improvements to Fisheries Lane, maintenance of the toilets and improved information on angling regulations and fisheries management through interpretative signs, maps and brochure. In addition Hydro Tasmania has conducted a significant weed removal program targeting gorse, blackberries and hawthorn at strategic locations.

The signs and brochure provide a detailed map of the area, promote responsible behaviour appropriate with the management objectives of Inland Fisheries Service and Hydro Tasmania and a code of conduct for anglers.

The project partners have developed a maintenance schedule to ensure that the toilets are maintained and weed management is ongoing.

The project could not have been completed without the cooperation of Hydro Tasmania, private landowners, Cressy Research Farm, IFS staff and volunteers from the Fly Fishers Club of Tasmania.