This week FGA gathered with a group of environmentally-focused agencies and branches at three important wetland reserves—Gaynor, Wallenjoe, and Mansfield Swamp—to discuss opportunities for better management and protection of these vital ecosystems. Each had its own issues:

👉 At Gaynor Wildlife Reserve, a regulator was inspected.

👉 At Wallenjoe, attention turned to a drain in urgent need of clearing.

👉 And at Mansfield Swamp, regulator maintenance raised further concerns.

Some great improvement opportunities were identified, and there was clearly a shared enthusiasm for finding and applying practical solutions.

FGA, alongside our conservation arm, Wetlands Environmental Taskforce, are now working on several projects aimed at protecting infrastructure, improving flood management, and enhancing how environmental water is delivered.

Whilst change doesn’t happen overnight, especially when funding is limited and many stakeholders are involved, with consultation, cooperation, and a shared passion for these landscapes, progress is possible.

Pictured: Left to Right

Jacob Bergamin Works Centre Coordinator Parks Victoria Shepparton

Bruce Russell Ranger Parks Victoria Shepparton

Fern Hames Program Coordinator for Taungurung Land and Waters Council

Graeme Wall Conservation Officer Rushworth Field and Game

Simon Castinelia Environmental Water & Wetlands Manager Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority

Adrian Weston Chair GBCMA & representative for The Corop Wetlands Cultural Waterscape Program

Glenn Falla Hunting & Conservation Manager Field & Game Australia National Office

Paul Sharp member of Board of Directors of Field & Game Australia

Joel Barnett Works Centre DEECA Rushworth

Joshua Mabon Works Centre Coordinator DEECA Rushworth

Brian Letcher Water Distribution Manager Goulburn Murray Water Rochester

David Cox Conservation Officer Shepparton Field and Game (absent)