Melbourne Water, Greater Western Water collaborate to save endangered Yarra Pygmy Perch

Melbourne Water and Greater Western Water have successfully completed a joint operation to refill a section of Deep Creek in the Macedon Ranges, aiming to save the endangered Yarra Pygmy Perch. 

The Yarra Pygmy Perch, a freshwater fish, faced near-extinction during the Millenium Drought, with surviving populations now mostly confined to a few dams and drought refuges. Typically, these fish reach refuges through groundwater-connected pools. However, Melbourne Water ecologists found no flowing water and almost dry pools at the Musteys Bridge and Doggetts Bridge sites. 

Higher temperatures, increased evaporation, and reduced stream flows have impacted the health of Deep Creek, which has not seen significant water flow since last November. Last summer was the driest since 2013/14 and the fourth warmest since 1910, following a dry spring that caused stream flows across our water catchments to drop 43% below the 30-year average. 

“The creek is home to the last two known populations of this rare fish in Melbourne, and as far east as they can be found,” said Vix Penko, Melbourne Water’s Head of Waterway & Catchment Services North West.  

“In a drying climate, our water corporations have a responsibility to balance the needs of customers with sustaining native animal habitat and maintaining biodiversity.” 

Upon learning about the dire condition of the drought refuges, Greater Western Water staff collaborated with Melbourne Water ecologists to devise a plan to rewater the creek and protect the Yarra Pygmy Perch. This water was transported from Greater Western Water's facility to the creek in two Melbourne Water trucks, ensuring it was filtered to prevent the introduction of aquatic pests.

“When we received the call from Melbourne Water, we were more than happy to help with this operation,” said Jodie Hallam, Greater Western Water’s General Manager of Operations and Delivery Solutions. 

“Caring for Country is one of our key pillars of our 2030 Strategy and we’re committed to improving the health of the Maribyrnong River network and the flora and fauna that benefit from it, including the rare Yarra Pygmy Perch.” 

This successful joint operation represents a practical step by Melbourne Water and Greater Western Water to support the Victorian Government’s Central and Gippsland Region Sustainable Water Strategy, and protect and promote the health of our rivers and creeks. 

Learn more about how we use water resources in the Central and Gippsland region.

Media enquiries:  
  03 9679 7004 
  [email protected]