Eight thousand fingerlings released into the Murrumbidgee River at Hay.

Hay Lions Football and Netball Club president George Auldist and Hay Mayor Carol Oataway with eager young volunteers at the recent release of 8,000 native fish fingerlings at Sandy Point Beach, Hay.

By Hay Shire Council

Hay Shire Council and Hay Lions Football and Netball Club partnered again for the annual native fish restocking in the river around Hay, and 8000 Murray Cod and Golden Perch fingerlings were released west of Sandy Point on New Year’s Day.

President of Hay Lions Football and Netball Club, George Auldist said he was proud of the significant role the club plays in contributing to the wellbeing of the local environment.

“Our beautiful river is not only a source of recreation but also a vital component of the natural balance that sustains our community,” he added.

“We have been supporting the native fish restocking program over many years and we are now seeing the benefit by an improved aquatic environment.”

Hay Shire Mayor Cr Carol Oataway was on hand to assist Mr Auldist with the fingerling release and said Council was pleased to be part of the annual restocking program and grateful to the Hay Lions Football and Netball Club and Department of Primary Industries for their very generous financial contributions towards the fingerling purchase.

This year DPI matched Council and HLFNC funds on a $2 for $1 basis which greatly increased the number of fingerlings we were able to purchase and release.

Hay Lions contribute funds raised from its annual fishing competition to assist with the purchase of fingerlings. The Club will be holding its next competition at the end of the month.

The fingerlings were transported in oxygenated tanks from Cowra and were well monitored throughout the trip to Hay.