The need for weed eradication and restoration of the Cobungra River has been raised as a priority by The Nationals in state parliament last week.
The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath has called on the Andrews Government to complete the removal of willows at Anglers Rest which began in August last year.
Ms Bath who is also the Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Public Land Use said while funding was provided for the removal of invasive weeds including willows in East Gippsland’s high country, the job is incomplete.
“Frustratingly, nine months down the track, restoration works on the Cobungra River beside the Blue Duck Inn remains half done.
“Unsightly tree stumps are protruding from the river bank significantly detracting from the visual amenity and creating a safety hazard.
“Dedicated volunteers from the Friends of the Mitta regularly care for the environment by undertaking invasive species removal of English broom and blackberries.
“The State Government through the North East Catchment Management Authority is responsible for the removal of the willows, clearly it needs to take a leaf out the volunteers book and finish the job.”
Ms Bath called on the Andrews Government to immediately recommence work to finish the job and restore the environment at Anglers Rest.
“Leaving the river banks strewn with 20 large tree stumps is unacceptable and poor practice.”
Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull said if this river was in down town Melbourne, the Andrews Government would have restored the river bank and remediated the area.
“Anglers Rest is a popular location in East Gippsland’s high country and the standard of work must reflect the significance of this environmental asset,” said Mr Bull.
The Minister for Water has 30 days in which to respond to Ms Bath’s question.
