Making a difference to the Gippsland Lakes is a team effort.

Collaborative works are making a difference across the Gippsland Lakes and the newly released 2025-26 Annual Report showcases the impact of working together towards a shared vision of a healthy Lakes. 

The 2025-26 Annual Report is a visual ‘snapshot’ of what has been achieved in 2025-26 across the dynamic catchment. It details how evidence-based programs are helping build resilience into the environment so it can meet future challenges.  

The Gippsland Lakes Ramsar Site Management Plan supported by the Priorities Plan ensure the highest priority works are being delivered through clear priorities and cooperation for return on investment for the Lakes’ wildlife, waterways and community. 

The Victorian Government provided $6 million over four years (2021-2024) as part of a wider $248 million investment to encourage Government agencies, groups and individual landowners to get involved in activities to help improve the health of the Gippsland Lakes on Gunaikurnai Country.  

Working together has turned this direct investment of $6 million into $18.65 million and many volunteer hours to deliver across the vast landscape with over 40 formal partners. New jobs have been created for Traditional Owners and community groups and new partnerships formed. 

Gunaikurnai Traditional Owners are the Lakes’ First Peoples and have self-determined their roles in the ongoing management and protection of the Gippsland Lakes. Across the year, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) continued to lead work on Country. Through pest plant and animal control, their team worked across the Outer Barrier to target invasive species impacting native flora and fauna in this important area. 

The report also highlights the success of creating and improving habitat for native fish in rivers with local angling clubs and interest groups. These works have improved the availability, density and connectivity of habitat for species such as Australian Bass, Estuary Perch, Black Bream, as well as threatened species such as the Australian Grayling. 

“We are especially proud of this year’s achievements that contribute to the bigger picture of protecting this world-renowned and precious Ramsar wetland and its catchment,” said Bec Hemming, CEO of East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. 

“We would like to thank everyone involved in this ongoing effort to work together for the Lakes. It once again showcases the benefits of the Love Our Lakes model of working together to deliver innovative, evidence-based initiatives while promoting Traditional Owner self-determination and work on Country,” concluded Ms Hemming.