Fish Field Day
The Fish Field Day at “Yarnell” near Condobolin provided a hands-on learning opportunity for landholders and community members, focusing on native fish, waterway health and practical land management. Led by Dr Adam Kerezsy (“Dr Fish”) and partners, participants experienced a live fish survey demonstration and learned about the role of environmental water in supporting local ecosystems. The day also included demonstrations on Boxthorn biological control and direct seeding for revegetation, highlighting practical approaches to improving landscape resilience. The event fostered knowledge sharing and strengthened connections between community, science and sustainable land management.
Capacity building - LEP23-005-Condo-05_LLC_009
The issue
Declining waterway health and reduced native fish populations in the region highlighted a need for greater awareness and understanding of how land and water management practices impact local ecosystems. Many landholders lacked access to practical, place-based knowledge on environmental water, fish biodiversity, and effective revegetation and weed control methods, creating a gap between scientific knowledge and on-ground application.
The solution
We delivered a practical, on-ground Fish Field Day at “Yarnell”, bringing together scientists, agencies and the local community. Dr Adam Kerezsy (University of Canberra) led a live fish survey demonstration translating research into real-world context. Central West Local Land Services delivered demonstrations on Boxthorn biological control and direct seeding. Resources were provided through project partnerships with CSIRO and regional agencies, with Landcare & Commonwealth Environment & Water Holder coordinating delivery. The event focused on hands-on learning, open discussion and accessible, locally relevant information to support improved land and water management.
The impact
The event increased awareness and understanding of native fish, environmental water and waterway health among local landholders and community members. Participants gained practical skills in fish identification, revegetation and weed management, supporting improved on-ground decision making. It empowered participants to take informed action to improve local creek systems and landscape resilience, contributing to healthier ecosystems and more sustainable farming practices in the region.
Key facts
- Hands-on fish survey led by Dr Adam Kerezsy (“Dr Fish”), University of Canberra
- Demonstrations on Boxthorn biological control and direct seeding for revegetation
- Delivered in partnership with CSIRO, CEWH, CWLLS and UC