A project to triple the size of the Allan Labor Government's Arcadia native fish hatchery will begin in coming weeks, with the expanded facility set to create more local jobs and ensure a bright future for Victoria's fish populations.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos today toured the site alongside members of the recreational fishing industry to learn firsthand how the facility will boost local fish production capacity and support the recovery of threatened fish species.
Located on the banks of the Goulburn River, the upgraded facility will feature more than 100 plankton and broodfish ponds and a new administration precinct which will see hatchery produce almost six million Murray cod and golden perch each year, thanks to the Labor Government's $10 million investment.
Once complete, the Victorian Fisheries Authority will also transition all local Murray cod production currently at Snobs Creek conservation fish hatchery in Eildon to the expanded Arcadia hatchery - freeing up capacity at Snobs Creek for more work on protecting Victoria's threatened native fish.
The conservation hatchery is part of the Government's work to combat the decline of Victoria's native plants and animals through the landmark 20-year Biodiversity plan, backed by a record investment of $582 million since 2014 to safeguard the state's one-of-a-kind natural environment.
This project is part of the Labor Government's $96 million Go Fishing and Boating Plan to boost fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture across the state.
More than 8 million fish will be produced in Victoria every year once the fish hatchery is complete - helping to secure the future of Victoria's fish for generations to come.
Construction is expected to be complete in mid-2025.
As stated by Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos
"This significant expansion at Arcadia will mean more home-grown native fish stocked into Victorian waters and more jobs in the Shepparton area both during construction and the hatchery's ongoing operation."
"Our investment in the Arcadia and Snobs Creek hatcheries will create unprecedented fish production capacity here in regional Victoria and keep recreational fishing in great shape for years to come."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"The Arcadia Hatchery and Visitor Centre is already a great asset for our region and I'm looking forward to seeing it continue to grow to be at the heart of Victoria's native fish production."
