Tocumwal Angling Club president Lenny Meloury presents a $1000 cheque to the Tocumwal SES members present on the day.
Tocumwal Angling Club released 15,000 Murray cod fingerlings into the Murray River on Saturday, marking an important step toward strengthening local recreational fishing and supporting the long-term health of the river system.
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The club purchased 5000 Murray cod fingerlings with a NSW Fisheries’ grant, with NSW Fisheries supplying an additional 10,000, making this significant release possible.
Club president Lenny Meloury said the initiative was about “investing in the future of our river and our community”.
“These fish will grow, reach maturity, and eventually reproduce, ensuring ongoing benefits for recreational fishing, tourism and the river ecosystem,” he said.
In addition to the fingerling release, the club donated $1000 to the Tocumwal State Emergency Service (SES), acknowledging the vital role its volunteers play in supporting and protecting the local community.
The event attracted strong community support, with locals attending to assist and learn about the correct procedures for safely releasing fingerlings.
The first of the fingerlings were released by club members at the beach.
The day helped raise awareness around responsible recreational fishing and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Special thanks were extended to angling club executive members - Mr Meloury, vice president Brent McDougall, secretary Glenn McNicol and treasurer Chiqueta McNicol - for their dedication and organisation of the event.
The club also acknowledged SES captain Justin Greatorex and volunteers Elsinore Harris, John Stava and Wendy Toole for their assistance with the fish release, and thanked K&A Foods Finley for supplying and delivering breakfast, Brew It Coffee Van for keeping everyone caffeinated, and Tara Fish Farm for providing the Murray cod fingerlings.
“The attendance of Berrigan Shire Councillor, Sharon Dennis, to witness the club’s positive work first-hand was also appreciated,” Mrs McNichol said.
Club members, Tocumwal SES unit volunteers and community members at the fingerling release on January 10.
“Many Tocumwal Angling Club members volunteered on the day, assisting with the fish release and breakfast and helping make the event a great success.
“These included Lee-Ann McDougall, Tilli Jane, Wendy and Peter Hayden, Di and Pete Rigby, Tim Burke and family, Jeanette Ryan, Peter Smithers, Mark Brentnall, Reney Heefer, Amy and Daniel Jaeger, Luke Hawkers, Stephen, Renae and Dylon McCallum, Sam Matthews, and Stuart Wade.
“The club also thanked NSW Fisheries for providing the grant that made this important community initiative possible.”
Fingerlings we released from the banks, and taken to other areas by boat.
