We have celebrated the completion of the East Barwon Willow Removal Project (stage two) by hosting a community field day.

The event provided members of the Gerangamete and Forrest Landcare Group the opportunity to learn more about the innovative work that Barwon Water and other agencies are doing to improve river health.

The East Barwon Willow Removal project, which began in 2021, saw willows removed; the streambed remediated and stabilised; the riverbanks revegetated with native species; and two rock grade control structures installed in the river.

The two 40-metre-long structures have stabilised the riverbed and are working to reduce erosion of the river channel. They also act as a rock ramp fishway, helping to provide valuable habitat and support the movement of fish through the creation of pools, runs, riffles and rapids.

Water flows, water quality and waterway health are being improved, which will help to alleviate flooding issues and protect the Wurdee Boluc Inlet Channel embankment.

The 17 participants enjoyed the walk and talk experience, which allowed them to view the revegetation works and take in the whole project site.

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) joined the tour to provide insights into the Barwon Flagship Waterway project and some of the innovative work they are doing to monitor native fish populations in the Barwon River.