Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association
Index Editorial ............................................................................. 2 Inland Fisheries Service ................................................... 3 Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2013/2014 .......... 3 From the Director - The State of the Fishery .................. 4 Hydro Tasmania Report ................................................... 6 Galaxiid Research in Arthurs Lake and Great Lake ....... 6 MAST Report .................................................................... 9 Anglers Alliance Tasmania Report ............................... 11 Chairman’s Review 2013 .............................................. 11 Inland Fisheries Advisory Council Report (IFAC) ..... 12 STLAA Reports ............................................................... 14 STLAA Executive ......................................................... 14 STLAA President’s Report - 2014 ................................ 15 Club Reports ................................................................. 17 Australian Polish Anglers Club ................................ 17 Bothwell Angling Club ............................................. 19 Bridgewater Anglers Association ............................. 20 Bronte – Bradys Fishing Club ................................... 22 Clarence Licensed Anglers Club............................... 24 Huon Licensed Anglers Association ......................... 29 Kingborough Anglers Association ............................ 32 Lake Pedder Anglers Club ........................................ 34 New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association ............ 38 Features & Special Reports ............................................ 40 ‘The Camp’ – Tods Corner ........................................... 40 Upper Derwent - Highland Lakes Region..................... 45 A Fishing Trip on the Lake River ................................. 48 Hector Jones’ recollections ........................................... 49 My Season that was 2013-4 .......................................... 53 Spinning ........................................................................ 55 My Collectable Fly Rod and Reel ................................. 59 Great Lake Beetle – a Mystery Solved?........................ 62 Obituary ........................................................................... 67 Season 2013-2014 Photo Gallery.................................... 68
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Trout 2014 Tasmanian Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association is published annually by the Association and its affiliated Clubs.
Cover Photo: NNLAA Tony Robertson with his 9.075kg brown trout from Catagunya
Report Committee: Terry Byard Bridgewater Anglers Ph 0429 977 185 Norm Cribbin Clarence Anglers Ph 0408 144 587 Laurie Harrison New Norfolk Anglers Ph 0428 626 370 Neil Pinkard Clarence Anglers Ph 0427 342 245
Editorial
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eason 2013-2014 was one of mixed results for many, with anglers reporting good fishing early in the season followed by patchy periods over most of the summer. Even the latter part of the season from all accounts, yielded mixed results. So if you were one of the lucky anglers, in the right place at the right time, you were in a select group.
Delegates issues affecting our fishery are being addresses in a timely manner. The AAT website has been extremely popular as anglers make use of the array of web cameras, checking the conditions at favourite waters. Through AAT, I urge all anglers to be involved with the management of our fishery, thus ensuring a healthy fishery for future generations.
May 2014 marked 150 years of Trout in Tasmania and it was pleasing to see this milestone celebrated at the Salmon Ponds where the first hatching occurred 150 years earlier. The IFS and Salmon Ponds tourist operations Nekon Pty Ltd are to be commended for organising the weekend event which was open to the public. Approximately 4,000 people attended in cool but fine and sunny weather conditions. Visitors enjoyed entertainment and an array of stalls presented the finest of the Derwent Valley’s wines, beers and produce.
The Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) have responded to angler concerns of small fish size and low numbers at many waters. The program of transferring trout from Arthurs to the Brady chain is just one example of how the IFS have been able to address both concerns through a well-conceived management plan. The IFS has also championed Angler Access and I am sure that all anglers would congratulate the IFS for the much improved access and the excellent brochures detailing access points. Special thanks must go to the Report Committee and Club Delegates who have spent many hours arranging advertising sponsors, following up on reports and collecting and writing the articles that appear within Trout 2014. As I have indicated in the past I would ask you to acknowledge our advertising sponsors, for without their support it would not be possible to continue to publish this annual report. So next time you are making use of any of our sponsor’s services, take time to thank them and mention that you saw their advertisement in the Trout 2014 book.
Visitors celebrating 150 years of trout in Tasmania at the Salmon Ponds Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT) have once again been a strong voice for all freshwater anglers and through the dedication of the Executive and
Norm Cribbin - Editor
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Inland Fisheries Service Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2013/2014
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s the Minister for Primary Industries and Water, with responsibility for Inland Fisheries, I appreciate the opportunity to provide my report for inclusion in Trout 2014 publication of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association (STLAA).
stocking programs and access through the successful Anglers Access Program. The delivery of these services will be enhanced through the reinstatement of the vacant Liawenee Fisheries Officer position and the establishment of a new position in Devonport. The role of these positions will continue to focus on fisheries compliance but incorporate a more diverse range of functions including biosecurity, fisheries management and the Carp Management Program.
The 4th of May 2014 marked the significant milestone of 150 years of trout in Tasmania proudly celebrated at the Salmon Ponds, the birthplace of trout in the Southern Hemisphere. Anglers today continue to enjoy the rewards of the dedicated anglers that persisted through adversity to successfully establish salmonids, and in particular brown trout in Tasmania's inland waters.
The future of the Carp Management Program is a major challenge that I intend to address through my term.
The recreational trout fishery today provides a popular pastime for Tasmanian families as well as a significant attraction for angling tourism, both vitally important to regional economies in the State. Accordingly my direction as Minister will be to implement measures aimed at enhancing participation in the fishery and maximising the return to the economy. A particular focus will be to explore the opportunities for developing a recreational fishery in the south of the State close to Hobart. This initiative being based on the successful model of Four Springs Lake strategically located between Launceston and Devonport.
The Significant progress of the IFS in preventing the spread of this invasive pest is commendable however funding challenges will remain in 2014/15. I am committed to supporting this program to its successful conclusion and will be exploring all options for securing community and funding support to achieve this. I acknowledge the long support and involvement of the STLAA in the management of the fishery and look forward working closely with you in the coming year. Yours sincerely
The Inland Fisheries Service provides a key role in managing the inland fishery and I will work closely with them in maximising the potential of the fishery. The IFS delivers many services effectively with its dedicated small team ensuring protection of the fishery through its carp and compliance programs, enhancement through
Jeremy Rockliff MP Deputy Premier Minister for Primary Industries and Water
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From the Director - The State of the Fishery
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he 2013/14 season was again dominated by climatic extremes. The winter – spring period was highlighted by high rainfall and good levels in lakes and rivers across the State. This resulted in Arthurs Lake reaching a record high water level around 50 mm from spill in November. Strong wind events were also a feature and again as in the previous year it became hot and very dry in the New Year. The fishing through the season was affected by the prevailing conditions resulting in a very tough year.
and 2,300 into Tooms Lake. The improvement in the fishery at both Tooms Lake and Lake Leake continued and these waters should be a standout in season 2014/15. Two thousand marked fish were released into Penstock Lagoon from the Arthurs Lake spawning run and this fishery will be the focus of an intensive investigation in 2014. In another initiative to enhance angling, the hours of fishing were extended at waters with a sunrise to sunset restriction, changing from one hour to three hours after sunset. This measure was requested by anglers to permit fishing at waters like Craigbourne Dam and Four Springs Lake where anglers target brown trout on dark.
Great Lake was again the most fished water through the season with Arthurs Lake and Woods Lake a clear second and third. The fishing at Arthurs Lake did improve this season although the dominance of younger fish remained apparent with monitoring of the spawning run at Hydro Creek indicating a record low average weight for this water.
Fisheries investigations were undertaken again this year in rivers across the State in order to monitor recovery from the cormorant predation experienced in prior seasons. The results showed that most rivers were recovering with trout populations expected to return to more normal levels within the next three years.
In response to the small fish size at Arthurs Lake the Service established barriers and traps on Tumbledown Creek and Scotch Bobs Creek to enable options for managing trout access to spawning habitat and the number of fish entering the population. The target is to achieve an average fish size of 1kg in the Hydro Creek spawning run.
Improvements to access and infrastructure continued to roll out through the season with a major initiative to ensure access to the western shore of Great Lake a feature. Access was negotiated with the new landowner and cattle grids installed on all major access tracks between Liawenee and Miena. Work continued on the River Derwent Anglers Access Project, which is expected to be completed in 2014. Preliminary work also commenced assessing the feasibility of establishing a new fishery in the south of the State and in the South Riana Dam in the North West.
Fisheries Management activities this season again focused primarily on the Bradys Chain of lakes, Tooms Lake, Lake Leake, Four Springs Lake and Penstock Lagoon. This year a record number of adult transfers were undertaken using additional fish from the Arthurs Lake spawning run. Through the winter a total of nearly 10,000 adult brown trout were transferred to Bradys Lake, 2,700 were transferred into Four Springs Lake and 1,855 into Lake Leake
MAST and Hydro Tasmania in collaboration with IFS completed a
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major boat ramp and pontoon structure at Bradys Lake, with work planned for Penstock Lagoon and Little Pine Lagoon and Lake Rowallan in 2014/15.
As always, I look forward to working closely with the STLAA and its member clubs in the 2014/15 season.
This year the IFS celebrated the 150 years of trout in Tasmania with a major function held at the Salmon Ponds on 3 and 4 May. A commemorative medallion and pin were produced along with a reprint of the Jean Walker book “Origins of the Tasmanian Trout�. The service is also giving away a Ford Ranger to one lucky full season licence holder to further celebrate the occasion. It is hoped that this initiative will also help improve licence sales which dropped slightly this year.
John Diggle Director of Inland Fisheries
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Hydro Tasmania Report Galaxiid Research in Arthurs Lake and Great Lake
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ntil recently, little was known about the “galaxiid” fish species (“tiddlers” or “native trout”) which inhabit many lakes in the Tasmanian Central Highlands. The secret lives of several of these little fishes have been unravelled by two dedicated scientists, an associate professor and a hydropower company who have been busily examining the life cycles of the galaxiid species in Great Lake and Arthurs Lake. This study has focused on determining when the fish breed and where they spawn, what habitats they prefer, how long they live, and what environmental factors influence them.
dissimilis), Great Lake paragalaxias (Paragalaxias eleotroides) and Western paragalaxias (Paragalaxias julianus). The more common Spotted galaxias (Galaxias truttaceus) and Climbing galaxias (Galaxias brevipinnis) are the two other non-threatened species found in the highlands.
The research, funded by Hydro Tasmania, was initiated in 2009 after prolonged, below-average rainfall and very low water levels highlighted the environmental risk posed to the threatened, endemic galaxiid fishes of Arthurs Lake and Great Lake. From the outset, it appeared that low water levels could potentially reduce the availability of critical spawning habitats of these fish along shorelines. In addition, due to the likely short life span of these fish, if spawning failed over two consecutive breeding seasons, their recruitment could be impacted and the viability of their populations put in jeopardy.
Great Lake paragalaxias (Paragalaxias eleotroides) and Shannon paragalaxias (Paragalaxias dissimilis) Great Lake paragalaxias and Shannon paragalaxias inhabit Great Lake, and Shannon and Penstock lagoons. Arthurs paragalaxias and Saddled galaxias are found in Arthurs and Woods lakes. Western paragalaxias are found in Lake Augusta and other waterbodies in the Western Lakes area. With Great Lake and Arthurs Lake being high priority lakes within Tasmania’s hydro-generation system they became the focus of the research which aimed to increase understanding the ecology and biology of threatened fish species and the effects of water level fluctuations on their populations. This knowledge was considered to be critical in the development of water level management strategies to sustainably manage these fish populations.
Ten galaxiid species are endemic to Tasmania (DEH, 2003), seven of these are found only in lakes in the Central Highlands and five of the species are listed under Commonwealth and/or State threatened species legislation. These species are the Arthurs paragalaxias (Paragalaxias mesotes), Saddled galaxias (Galaxias tanycephalus), Shannon paragalaxias (Paragalaxias
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Before revealing the “hidden life of the galaxiids” it is important to acknowledge the many scientists who have participated in this important research. Dr Scott Hardie, private consultant and Adjunct Lecturer with the University of Tasmania (UTAS), has led the research. He is a recognised authority in the field after having studied galaxiid populations in Lakes Crescent and Sorell for many years. Intensive field sampling, fish collecting (throughout the seasons!) and water quality and habitat monitoring has been undertaken by Kevin Macfarlane, environmental consultant with Entura. Statistical analysis and ecological guidance has been provided by Associate Professor Leon Barmuta from the School of Biological Sciences at UTAS. Rob Freeman, senior fisheries management officer with the Inland Fisheries Service, has undertaken annual galaxiid population monitoring and investigated the status of galaxiid fish populations in Great Lake. Kyne KrusicGolub and his team at Fish Ageing Services, Victoria, analysed otoliths (fish ear bones) to help determine fish growth patterns, age structure and longevity. Technical and safety support was provided by numerous scientists at Entura and Hydro Tasmania.
(Hardie, Macfarlane and Barmuta, 2011). These are some of the findings:
Galaxias species scatter their eggs over the surface of rocks and aquatic vegetation, while Paragalaxias species deposit discrete broods of eggs beneath rocks favouring more complex habitat comprising pebbles, cobbles and boulders.
Paragalaxias mesotes eggs adhering to the underside of rocks in Arthurs Lake.
Cobbles and boulders provide spawning habitat for galaxiids (Swan Bay, Great Lake).
Kevin Macfarlane snorkelling the shore of Arthurs Lake in search of galaxiid eggs. After two research campaigns spanning 2009-2011 and 2012-2014 much more is now known of the life cycles of the galaxiids from Arthurs and Great lakes
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Paragalaxias species spawn and hatch between September and January, while Galaxias species hatch between September and December.
Snorkel-based observations and in situ underwater camera equipment have identified that adult Paragalaxias stay with their eggs suggesting parental care behaviour is used in breeding.
Lake-dwelling Galaxias and Paragalaxias species differ in the habitats they use. Paragalaxias species are generally more associated with the lake bottom, while Galaxias species can be found in most habitats within a lake throughout their life cycle.
While some individuals can attain ages between 3-7 years, the longevity of these galaxiid species is quite short, with the majority of the populations dominated by fish younger than 3 years.
Galaxiid reproduction cycles are associated with water level and temperature regimes.
The galaxiid populations in both lakes are reasonably abundant and recruitment has continued to occur in recent years.
for feeding and refuge, is allowing the influence of water levels on these galaxiid fish populations to be determined. A water level management strategy for Great Lake, aimed at mitigating impacts on threatened fish populations, has been established and is being trialled. With the completion of the research program, the knowledge gained will also be applied to Shannon and Penstock lagoons, and Woods Lake. Hydropower generation is critical to Tasmania’s economy. Coming to terms with the environmental risks that are posed by droughts, the effects of climate change while continuing to sustainably manage the water sources and ecological values, such as threatened fish species, remains a challenge. However, five years of research and dedicated scientific investigation has filled a critical knowledge gap.
Obtaining knowledge of life cycles, longevity and general habitat preferences References Department of the Environment and Heritage (DEH), (2003) Tasmania's Threatened Galaxiids. http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/tasmanias-threatened-galaxiids (viewed 17 September 2014). Hardie, S.A., Macfarlane, K.R., and Barmuta, L.A., (2011) Life histories of galaxiid fishes in Arthurs Lake and Great Lake, Tasmania and effects of water level fluctuations on their populations. Report for Hydro Tasmania. Hydro Tasmania. http://www.hydro.com.au/system/files/documents/environment/Hardie_Barmuta_and_M acfarlane_2011.pdf (viewed 20 September 2014).
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MAST Report
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he trout season is now open after a break of a few months and anglers are heading to some of their favourite destinations to try their luck in the many lakes, rivers and streams around the State.
erected on them. MAST had many requests from anglers who are not as agile as they used to be and by all accounts these have proved to be a real success. MAST heard that one angler’s wife, who had difficulty getting in and out of the boat went fishing with her husband for the first time in 20 years, this story alone makes the hand rails worthwhile! But please, use the cleats to tie your boat up to, not the hand rails.
MAST will continue to work with the IFS and Hydro Tasmania to deliver projects for inland anglers contained in the Inland Fisheries Infrastructure Plan. MAST has provided in excess of $700,000 from the Recreational Boating Fund and Licence Fees together with an amount from Hydro Tasmania of $500,000 towards inland lake projects. Whilst not directly contributing funds to these inland projects, IFS has acted as project manager on some of the projects. In excess of $1.2 million has been spent on Inland projects since 2004. Those who use Brady’s Lake will be aware of the new ramp and pontoon constructed there. I thank all the anglers that have provided us with much positive feedback on that project. Brady’s is of course is a popular fishery and all reports are that it is fishing well this season so this facility will be most welcomed. Those fishing Great Lake will be aware that the promised pontoon at Swan Bay is now in place. Again, great feedback has been received. A similar pontoon is also in place at Arthurs at the Dam Wall. Further pontoons are planned for Brandum Bay on Great Lake and Jonah Bay at Arthurs during 2014-15. Anglers are advised however that should Great Lake fall below -16 or thereabouts it is likely the pontoons will be unusable and they may be removed until water levels increase. Those who have used the pontoons have probably noticed hand rails have been
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I am also pleased to report that MAST has contributed to the installation of another camera in conjunction with Anglers Alliance. The camera will be placed at Four Springs Lake and will provide anglers with “on the spot” weather and have a great safety outcome.
the successful and well utilised MAST TV. Facebook is also a great communication tool and MAST posts regular updates for the boating and angling community. If you have not yet been out this season please take just a few minutes to check the safety gear and your boat, ensure there is no fresh water collected under the floor of your boat.
The 24 lights at locations around the central lakes have now been installed, again, a great safety outcome for inland anglers and a great initiative of IFS, funded by MAST.
Happy fishing from all the crew at MAST. Peter Hopkins
The MAST website continues to be a useful resource and we urge all anglers, if they have access to a computer and the internet to look at our website (www.mast.tas.gov.au) as there is some useful educational material and of course
Manager – Recreational Boating Marine and Safety Tasmania
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Anglers Alliance Tasmania Report Chairman’s Review 2013
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he past year has seen a great deal of promotion around the sesquicentenary of the successful wild brown trout introduction into the southern hemisphere, this I hope will lead to a greater advocacy and participation within our fishery.
launching points, reduction of hindrances, more options for youth and family participation. Where do we go from here? Suggestions are always welcome with AAT. New initiatives and ideas raised through the regular phone conferencing of the executive have led to the exploration of further expanding the reach and effectiveness of the AAT. Opportunities exist and more will arise to have greater input on the management of waterway quality. The AAT executive have engaged in discussion through a facilitator to further evaluate the best approach for influencing waterway integrity; this would involve bringing in other waterway stakeholders for their input and collective partnership action and commitments.
Tasmania is proud to have been the seeding point for this globally historic event and now we enjoy some of the best and most unique wild brown trout fishing in the world in our own state. Sincere congratulations to the Inland Fisheries Service (which in those days was known as the Commission). In these trying times of global climate change, along with other challenging cyclic events and demanding waterway and land use management practice, the Service continues to hold strong, and develop reliable management practices.
Thanks to the Executive: Malcolm Cross, Terry Byard, and our secretary Denis Edwards, for their continued passion and efforts and all those participants in AAT activities. Your support and the support of the wider angling community are the strength behind the AAT.
Because of the IFS commitment, along with anglers’ enthusiasm and other major stakeholders input, we can continue to enjoy a truly great trout fishery. Anglers Alliance and partners are forging a strong bond. Results over the last few years in terms of infrastructure, information on the fishery for the resident and visiting angler is greater than it has ever been.
I thank the past chair, Mike Stevens, for his continued support and actions for the AAT. I am very happy to have served the angling community and its causes for the past year alongside a group and team of dedicated individuals and organisations.
Communication and interaction between fisheries management, angling clubs and independent angling voices has a stronger avenue for being heard, considered, actioned and a greater chance of positive results.
I put forward my nomination for the coming year as chairman of the Anglers Alliance Tasmania.
Among the legacies of the alliance and the partners are things like improved access points along with the conveniences of safe and reliable routes,
Gary France Chairman - Anglers Alliance Tasmania
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Inland Fisheries Advisory Council Report (IFAC) 2013-14
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he Council is now into the third year of its four-year term. During the year Mr Phillip Cooper resigned from the Council and a replacement has not yet been announced by the Minister for Primary Industries and Water at the time of this report.
IFAC provides an important sounding board for IFS, in particular the Director. In its advisory roll the skills based board contributes significantly to the governance and strategic direction of the organisation.
Member
Representation and role
Sue Baker
Chairperson
Dr. Karen Richards
Representing conservation interests
Michael Stevens
Representing freshwater angling associations
Gary France
Representing tourism interests
Phillip Cooper (resigned 21 February 2014)
Representing freshwater commercial interests
Dr. Christine Mucha
Ministerial appointment
John Diggle
Director of Inland Fisheries
Membership of the Inland Fisheries Advisory Council as at 1 July 2013 IFAC met on six occasions during the year with five meetings held at Inland Fisheries New Norfolk offices and the October 2013 meeting at the Australian Fly Fishing Museum Clarendon House Nile.
a small team of highly skilled and long serving employees. This plan will be used to guide staff retention and replacement strategies and improve IFS workforce planning in the years ahead. The IFS faces a range of risks across the spectrum of its business operations in addition to key person dependency and an ageing workforce. IFAC’s recommendation for the development of an organisational strategic and key operational risk management plan was implemented during the year. An external consulting firm in consultation with IFAC and senior management developed a risk register to assist the IFS fulfil its governance obligations and manage the ongoing risk throughout the organisation. The resulting risk management plan will better equip IFS to prioritise key areas for active management.
Despite the challenges presented by financial constraints, the IFS continued to make good progress against its 20122017 Strategic Plan in the 2013/14 year with an IFAC review at December 2013 showing all goals and objectives set for the 2013-14 year well progressed and then subsequently achieved by 30 June 2014. The tight funding constraints have meant increased pressure on remaining staff as they endeavour to provide the expected level of comprehensive services. During the year IFAC instigated the development of a succession plan as a component of the IFS’s business planning process to mitigate the risk of unplanned and unexpected changes in key personnel, given the high reliance on
The 2014 year also marked the 150-year anniversary of the first hatching of trout in Tasmania with a special event at the
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Salmon Ponds marking this occasion on the Saturday and Sunday the 3rd and 4th May 2014. This event was jointly sponsored by the lessee’s of the Salmon Ponds Nekon Pty Ltd. It well attended and publicised marking a significant anniversary for the IFS and the angling community across Tasmania.
anglers and provide advice to the Minister as required under the Act. In conclusion it has been another challenging year and in the penultimate year of the current Inland Fisheries Advisory Council a significant amount of its four-year work plan has been achieved. 2014-15 will be a year of consolidation for the Council ensuring all work done to date with the IFS is being effectively implemented.
Of particular note in the 2013-14 year was the change of Government with a new Minister the Hon Jeremy Rockliff MP, appointed to the Primary Industries portfolio. The IFAC Chair and the IFS Director will continue their regular meetings with the Minister to advance the interests of inland fisheries and
Sue Baker Chairperson Inland Fisheries Advisory Council
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STLAA Reports STLAA Executive OFFICE BEARERS 2013-2014 POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 697 Moonah 7009 PATRON: Mr Bob Ward PRESIDENT: Mr Laurie Harrison VICE PRESIDENT: SECRETARY: Mr Neil Pinkard HONORARY TREASURER: Ms Alexandra Pinkard HONORARY HISTORIAN: Mr Ray Aitchison AAT DELEGATES: Mr Terry Byard, Justin Causby, Amos Mapleston EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Mr Norm Cribbin, Ms Alex Pinkard, Mr Neil Pinkard, Mr Laurie Harrison and Mr Tim Lowe CLUB DELEGATES: Australian Polish Anglers L. Stefankowski, B. Whittaker, A. Kniaz Bothwell Anglers Bridgewater Anglers Bronte/Brady Anglers Clarence Anglers Huon Anglers Kingborough Anglers Lake Pedder Anglers New Norfolk Anglers A. Maclaine C. Smith R. Ryder L. Ward B. Creed
1979 1983 1983 1987 1992
Don Emery, David Dyson Terry Byard Kim Cooper Gary Davy, Alexandra Pinkard Rob Chandler, Larry Paul John Francis, Amos Mapleston Matthew Mallinson, John Groves Tim Lowe, Justin Causby LIFE MEMBERS: R. Aitchison 1995 L. Harrison K. Jones 1999 K. Hansson D. Cranfield 1999 P. Wood R. Bradshaw 2002 D. Triffitt T. Byard 2004 N. Cribbin
2009 2009 2010 2011 2012
CERTIFICATE FOR SERVICES TO ANGLING AWARDS: R. Bradshaw P. Wood L. Datlen K. Hanson W. Knight N. Cribbin B. Sherriff D. Triffitt T. Sutton W. Seabrook N. Pinkard F. Johnson J. Bluett E. Aitchison K. Walker B. Johnston M. Sherriff R. Walker
2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2001 2001 2001 2001 2002 2002 2002 2003 2004 2004 2004 2004 2004
D. Cranfield D. Driver P. Richards M. Russell H. Chivers M. Pinkard R. Aitchison A. Smith S. Page B. Page D. Goss S. Granger J. Barrett B. Andrew M. Harrison C. Harris J. Groves K. Cooper
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2004 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 2006 2007 2007 2007 2007 2008 2008 2008 2009 2010 2010 2010
J. Causby S. Mallinson T. Gourlay J. Steele N. Bester C. Pearce J. McIlhenny M. Mallinson J. Freeman D. Emery D. Wright P. Thompson R. Cooper I. Cooper N. Rowlands M. Excell A. Donohue
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014
STLAA President’s Report - 2014
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t is with great pleasure that I present the President’s Report for the 2013/14 angling season. The association has had another successful year.
throughout the year and we will continue to ensure that our social program is in line with their expectations. I would like to particularly thank our sponsors, many of whom have been supporting the Association for a number of years Hydro Tasmania, Spot On-The Fishing Connection, Rod and Range, Bob Jane Moonah, Wigston’s Lures, Wigston Sports, Tazzy Tyres, Mike Stevens, and Moonah Auto Parts have been great supporters of our social events and activities program. Advertisers have also played a key role in making Trout possible. To all of these groups I say a big thank you, for without your generous support much of our activities would not be possible.
Firstly I must thank the past President, Norm Cribbin for his excellent stewardship of the Association during these past four years at the helm. Norm’s contribution has made it quite easy for me personally stepping into the role as President. The past year has seen another season of solid performance and contribution by the Association, ably backed by our member clubs. It is the continued collective commitment of the clubs that makes the Association strong and this commitment has continued and strengthened throughout the season 2013-14. Though the Association, clubs continue to support each other through difficult times and this strengthens the ties between us all. Of note are the contributions by the New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association. In August 2013 the association combined with other clubs within the STLAA in the opening of the Brown Trout season where the New Norfolk Licensed Angling Association conducted the opening weekend with the money raised going to a charity of their choice there were six other clubs involved in a well run competition.
On the fishing front, I think that the season had its ups and downs. We saw some great early season activity but the weather changed for the worst with a lot of water coming from the skies and those terrible winds which took its toll on the fishery but there were some great fishing towards the end of the season with some nice fish taken and some nice bags as well. I would like to thank the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) for its support of the STLAA and its activities. The STLAA has strongly endorsed the work of the IFS and its predecessor organization since fisheries management came under the control of the government in the 1950’s. Over this time, our association has developed a friendly and supportive relationship which continues today I know that this will continue well into the future as you would know this year brings up the 150th year since the introduction of brown trout into the southern hemisphere.
Also the Lake Pedder Anglers Club with their Back to Pedder Competition with the money raised from their auction also going to charity, this is the largest freshwater competition run within the state and maybe within Australia so well done to that club for its contribution. The Association’s social events for the year were again highly successful and very well attended. I thank the members and their families for their support
I would like to take this time to thank the following people of the executive
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committee and they are Tim Lowe Vice President, Neil Pinkard secretary, Alex Pinkard treasurer, Norm Cribbin and Ray Aitchison Honorary Historian for their assistance throughout the year.
to the Secretary of the association: Nominations for Life Membership, Nominations for the Certificate for Service to Angling, and the Heaviest fish category both Senior and Junior.
A note to all clubs just to remind you all that for the Heaviest fish both Senior and Junior ends at the end of the Brown Trout season that is the end of April each year there for clubs have until the 15th of May each year to have the following
Finally I would like to wish all anglers and families great fishing for the upcoming season. Laurie Harrison - STLAA - President
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President: Adrian Kniaz Secretary: Luke Stefankowski Treasurer: Anthony Young Postal Address: 51 Jetty Road, Old Beach, 7017 Meetings: 2nd Wednesday Monthly
Club Reports Australian Polish Anglers Club t’s a great honour to be the president of this great club taking over from Luke Stefankowski who did a wonderful job in his four year reign. Taking on the difficult job as secretary now I would like to thank Luke for all his support and guidance in my new position.
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Our Lake Binney trip always proves to be a great success and hasn’t let us down this year either, with the lake being so high, a dry camping area was hard to find. The members who turned up didn’t seem to mind with a very good catch rate being produced. Everybody had a great time on the water, off the water and around the camp
I am pleased to say that the Polish Anglers club has once again helped organise the STLAA AGM Dinner for 2014. The evening was a great success. I would like to personally thank all the committee members who helped set up and organise this event. You have all done a great job and your efforts are greatly appreciated
Lake Echo always fairs well for the club and this year didn’t let us down either with some good bags being caught and some of the fish being in very good condition. One Angler bagged out twice in consecutive days. Arthurs Lake always encourages our members to turn up with the great Mudeye fishing conditions. This way of fishing proved to very successful for some of our members, whilst other members tried other techniques probably didn’t fare as well. Some members didn’t have any success at all, not by the lack of trying. The thunder storms on the Friday night and the Saturday made things very interesting for some time. Club members are a little disappointed with the camping arrangements at Jonah bay
The club has seen some changes this year, these include: Changes in the way prize money is won. The introduction of different raffle prizes, including fuel vouchers. The introduction of a newsletter distributed to members throughout the fishing season, highlighting club events and outlining any changes. Early start, early finish rule where fishing competition start times have been brought forward.
March saw the club return to our beloved Lake Pedder a month earlier. Friday was an absolute “pearler” a little too hot so I am told as I could not get there until Friday night. However things changed on Saturday rather quickly after 12 noon with the wind and the rain returning to us with a vengeance keeping all the boats on trailers and the vehicles stationary. Esky lids were opened more frequently before the torrential rain appeared. The final day saw some good condition fish being weighed in.
Different fishing locations being tried on our Calender.
In relation to the raffle prizes, it is important to recognise and thank our wonderful sponsors who support our club every year with their generous donations. Although some of our competitions this year have attracted lower member numbers there have been a good number of fish being caught, and the numbers of stories about “the one that got away” are getting better too!!
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I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of my first year as president and I would like to thank all the members for their support and for continuing to turn up to competitions and functions to support this great club. I hope to see you all here again to celebrate another successful 2014-2015 season. Adrian Kniaz - President
Honour Roll 2013-2014: Award
Angler
Catch & Location
Heaviest for season:
Rysard Jurek
1.240 kg Lake Echo
Heaviest by a Lady:
Beata Jurek
0.679 kg Lake Binney
Heaviest by a Junior:
Charlie Kniaz
0.740 kg Arthurs Lake
Statistics 2013-2014 Location
Catch
Total Weight
Ave Weight
Best Fish
Derwent River
5
3.077 kg
0.615 kg
1.107 kg
Lake Binney
31
15.570 kg
0.502 kg
0.695 kg
Wayatinah Lagoon
1
0.354 kg
0.354 kg
0.354 kg
Lake Echo
47
23.969 kg
0.510 kg
1.240 kg
Arthurs Lake
40
14.920 kg
0.373 kg
0.820 kg
Lake Pedder
22
9.508 kg
0.432 kg
0.741 kg
Totals
146
67.398 kg
0.462 kg
1.240 kg
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President: Don Emery Secretary: Emma Datlen Treasurer: David Dyson P.O. Box 51 Bothwell 7030
Bothwell Angling Club
T
he past year has been a difficult year for our club – participation at all levels has been less than we would have liked. Despite this, our club has continued to survive. Attendance at competitions was below average with no fish weighed in for the President’s Weekend competition. However, our Fun Fish weekend proved more successful with some nice fish weighed in from Lake Leake. I hope next season’s events will be better attended by members and juniors.
Our Annual Dinner and Trophy night was a nice occasion with visitors from the STLAA and IFS attending. I would like to particularly thank our Mayor Deirdre Flint and our Patron Mr Richard Bowden for their attendance and continued support throughout the year. It was resolved at our AGM that the club will continue for the coming year. I wish all members a successful season and ask that you support our club as much as possible. Don Emery - President
Presentations to Bothwell Junior competition winners
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President: Alistair Creed Secretary: Gary Chaffey Treasurer: Cheryl Williams STLAA Delegates – Terry Byard Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month except January & June
Bridgewater Anglers Association
I
t is with much pleasure that 1present the President's Report for 2013/14 angling year.
Crescent with bad weather of drizzle/rain and mod. S was poorly attended. Five fish were caught from the outlet canal, all rainbows and in excellent condition. Kevin Nettlefold had the heaviest at 2.45 kg.
The Season started well with a good roll up for the Association with the AGM, trophy presentation and dinner hosted by the Brighton Bowls Club. Tom Crawford from Tackle Us presented an illustrated talk on the development of some new lures. Alistair Duggan had a very successful trophy year.
The annual Christmas BBQ at Tolosa Reserve was well attended and every one had a good feed and enjoyed the Seasonal Spirit. Thanks to all who helped out with catering and cooking.
The fishing also commenced well with a good roll up for the opening weekend on the Derwent River with 59 fish being weighed in. Weather was showery on both days with moderate NW winds on Sunday. Opening day finished with a barbecue and weigh in at the Austin's Ferry Yacht Club and Members travelled to New Norfolk on Sunday and enjoyed the fellowship of members from other Clubs. We again missed out in the "Combined Club Competition" by a close margin to New Norfolk Branch.
Life Member Robert Bradshaw organised and guided a group of four members on a four day trekking/fishing party to Lake Fergus. The weather was very hot and good with plenty of fish rising. Dry fly was the go with the occasional take on a small cobra early in the morning. Catch and release was the order of the day except what was required for breakfast. February Lake Burbury competition was only attended by two members. The lake was low and fishing was hard at Nelson Inlet and Bull Bay with a mayor storm on Sunday and the bush fires just left to burn themselves out. Fishing in the King Basin was good on Monday with 11 kept and same number returned.
The Derwent did not fish well on the late August competition with only 12 fish weighed in but Members enjoyed a good BBQ. The late September competition, at Tooms Lake in light to moderate NWSW winds attracted 12 members for 12 fish (10.07 kg), largest 1.5 kg. The Derwent competition in early October was poorly attended with only two fish caught." Show Weekend" at Arthurs and Surrounding Waters was marked with gale SW winds, snow and rain. Early birds for the week got some from Woods and nil return from a spilling Crescent.
The Lake Pedder competition was enjoyed by all that attended with great accommodation and our free dinner at the Chalet. The weather was good with some drizzle one day. Many laps of the indoor pool were completed and our youngest junior member caught his first fish from the boat ramp. Well done Henry continuing in your mother's footsteps. 14 fish were caught and great BBQs were had.
Arthurs was spilling and fished poorly, 2 fish, 3 from King William with A. Duggan 1.06Kg the heaviest from Penstock. Thanks to Garry and Cheryl Williams for Saturday night BBQ and hospitality. End of November comp, at
Craigbourne Dam competition, in late March was dominated by Mrs Taydee Bester with two Atlantic salmon (one
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1.120 kg) and a Tiger trout. Tooms Lake competition at the end of March was well attended. 25 fish were weighed in totalling (14.46 kg), with Garry Williams 1.180 kg fish being the heaviest. Another 8 fish were caught outside competition, hours. Weather was good with light NE-NW winds.
painting and oiling were completed and a gourmet dinner was cooked with some especially good roast pork thanks to the Bellerive Meat Emporium. Seven General and one Committee Meeting were held during the year and thanks to Stephen Bax from Spot On for hosting one.
Thanks to the Chaffey’s for Saturday BBQ. End of season competition at Bronte was well attended by the usual competitors. All stayed at Bronte Village and had a great meal on Saturday night after rain and snow all day. Friday and Sunday were good for fishing. 27 fish weigh in (14.98 kg) the largest 1.29 kg rainbow caught by Robert Bradshaw from Bronte Lagoon.
To our guest speakers, trophy donors, members of committees, participants at working bees, material and fund donors I on behalf of the Club extend thanks and gratitude. In closing thanks to the Secretary Gary Chaffey and Treasurer Cheryl Williams for all your hard work, STLAA delegates Terry Byard and Bob Ward, shack Booking Officer Angus Maclaine and all the Committee and Members for their hard work and support for a great year.
The Shack working bee was attended by those using the shack and other Members. Thanks to the "wood gang" that cut and delivered a full wood shed and installed the new stove prior to the Bee. At the Bee cleaning, tidying up,
Tight Lines for Season 2014-15 Alistair Creed - President
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President: Craig Kelly Vice President: Bob Horton Secretary: Anne-Maree Donoghue Treasurer: Arthur Cummingham STLAA Delegate – Kim Cooper
Bronte – Bradys Fishing Club
I
t has been another successful year for the Bronte/Brady's Fishing club. The club held competition days at the following locations, Tungatinah Lagoon, Pine Tier Lagoon, Bradys Lake, Lake Binney and other local waters.
The club has 38 adult and 29 juvenile members. The club hopes to improve on these numbers in the coming fishing season. During the year the club purchased a BBQ and a Gazebo which has greatly enhanced our enjoyment on the competition days, especially in times of inclement weather.
The highlight of the season has been the three juvenile competitions held at the club's pond located at the Tarraleah Golf club. Most if not all juvenile anglers caught a fish at each of the competitions and they enjoyed the outings immensely. The club plans to continue the juvenile competition days in the coming fishing season.
There was a special competition day and Annual Dinner event held on 2 November. Bob Horton - Vice President
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Bothwell Garage Open 6.00 am – 7.00 pm 7 Days Reg. Fire -arms Dealer Permits & Ammo Fishing Licences Bait & Tackle BBQ Gas, Groceries, Videos Auto Parts Newspapers & magazines EFPOS & lots more Proprietors : Geoff & Julie Herbert
Telephone: 6259 5599 Fax: 6259 4051
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President: Neil Pinkard Secretary: Dave Roberts Treasurer: Gary Davy Postal Address: PO Box 291 Rosny Park 7018 Contact: 0408 144 587 Email: norm.cribbin@hydro.com.au
Clarence Licensed Anglers Club
W
e had a fine turn-out in July when members and past members and their families gathered to celebrate not only the 2013-2014 season but also commemorate the past 50 seasons on the 50th anniversary of the formation of our Club.
cold beers at each of our monthly meetings. A highlight this year is the profile of our Club, which reflects on all of the members over the past 50 years who have made this Club what it is today – one of the most respected clubs in Tasmania. There have been very favourable comments made by Mike Stevens, Phil Ellerton and others about our enthusiasm and how active we are as a Club. It is worth noting that we are the sole remaining STLAA club between Kingborough to the south and Bridgewater to the north. So we not only have a good reputation but also an obligation to further angling in the greater Hobart region.
On the night we honoured the more active members over the past 50 years as well as awarded trophies to our productive anglers of the past season. We also drew the winners of our annual raffle which has been a much greater success than previous years. The winner of the fly box was Ron King who was present on the night – and is still showing it off! I thank all those members who have supported the Club in some way during the past 12 months, whether via Club meetings, field trips, social events, fundraising, Ray’s BBQs, IFS’ Liawenee week-end, raffles, articles for our newsletter, or representing the Club at STLAA meetings and functions.
During the past season we have had:
I also thank the members of the Committee, all have been very supportive and hard-working, but none more so than Dave Roberts – our Secretary and the Editor of “Clarence Catchlines” our monthly newsletter. Well done, Dave! It is an extremely time consuming role requiring dedication, responsibility and pro-activity.
9 general meetings, 9 Committee meetings, 2 social evenings, 12 fishing trips, 12 BBQs, as well as the stalls at Liawenee
We have also been very active supporters of STLAA by providing the Secretary, the Treasurer, the Executive Committee and Editors of “Trout”, the annual report of STLAA. We have been very well represented at all STLAA meetings and functions such as the:
Deserving our thanks too is Gary Davy, our Treasurer for the past 5 years, who has been very diligent in collecting the proceeds of our fund-raising efforts such as BBQs, raffles and the stall at Liawenee. Typically he only writes out cheques with reluctance. Just the qualities you want in a Treasurer. Just as important he has ensured that there is a supply of
Family BBQ at Bushy Park, STLAA Centenary Celebrations at the Salmon Ponds, STLAA Annual Dinner – where we were the most represented club.
At the AGM the Treasurer proffered figures demonstrating our improved financial position and quantifying the
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Congratulations Ron and a big “Thank You!”
success we have had in fund-raising through our BBQs, raffles and drinks; however we need to extend our membership, and also work harder at welcoming and retaining new members by providing practical assistance and encouragement to be active anglers and club supporters. Re the Club’s Cabin in Dolerite Drive at Arthurs Lake, there has been much progress however it has been slower than I would have liked due to work and other commitments hindering Norm, Gerry and Vince. Fortunately they have been ably assisted by new members such as Ronnie, Peter and Jonathan. Therefore I expect we will see significantly more progress in the new season.
Neil presenting Ron with his 50 year special commemorative medallion. It wasn’t long after that when a much younger Jeff Freeman joined so he too has been an active member for nearly 50 years. Recently the STLAA awarded Jeff a Certificate for Services to Angling in recognition of all those years promoting angling and supporting the Club. He was a Committee man for most of the 1970’s and assisted with the building of our previous cabins at Bronte Lagoon and Lake Sorell. Jeff has now been awarded Life Membership of our Club. Congratulations Jeff.
As mentioned previously we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the formation of our Club which was first mooted at a meeting on 12th June 1964. On 7th July 1964 there were 97 members present when the constitution was adopted. In August 1964 the Club was formally accepted as a branch of STLAA. To mark this occasion we produced a booklet which we have called “Clarence Anglers – The First 50 Years” which details the Club’s office-bearers over that period. It has been compiled by David Driver and I extend my thanks to him. Copies of the booklet were given to all attendees at the Dinner. An electronic version is now available. We appreciated David’s efforts and his contribution to the celebration. We are honoured that the inaugural President, Ron Ruthven, is still an active member of the Club. To express our appreciation to Ron for helping to ensure that the Club had a good start and continued to build upon it by taking on several roles as President, SVP, VP, Delegate and auditor many times, we have previously made Ron a Life Member. At the Dinner, to mark 50 years of active membership, we presented Ron with a special commemorative medallion.
Jeff Freeman – CLAC Life membership There is another member that we also made a Life Member of our Club is Alex Smith. Whilst he has not been a member as long as Ron and Jeff, it has been a continuous period of enthusiastic and dedicated service to the Club. He has been an active member of the Committee for 8 of the past 9 years. In addition he
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honoured with the moniker “MONK”. One member, who shall remain anonymous, even affixed letters M O N K to the back window of Norm’s van whilst he was out on Lake Burbury but they must have been misaligned because Norm removed them as soon as he arrived home. We all can be comforted that Norm will ensure the Cabin is built exactly to the plans, and that it will be constructed soundly according to good engineering principles. I know that Norm won’t be resting on his laurels and will continue in the same vein. Congratulations Norm. You have earned this recognition by hard work.
has, together with Charlie Harris, instigated and developed and organised the One-Fly/One-Lure Competition. He has regularly been a genial worker at Club events particularly the BBQs and Liawenee stands.
Alex Smith – CLAC Life membership A third member was made Life Member of the Club when we honoured Norm Cribbin. Everyone in our Club, STLAA, AAT and IFS knows Norm as he is one who has been a very active participant in all Club activities such as committee positions, STLAA delegate and president, field events, recording catches, fly casting representative, fly tying instruction, BBQs, Liawenee, and now building the Cabin. You name it, Norm has been involved not just on the edges but at the fore. I list his achievements – well those that I can remember:
Norm Cribbin – CLAC Life membership Now I come to the new season. Members have had input as to when and where to have our field trips which we have attempted to incorporate in a draft Calendar of Events to be finalised after the AGM. Our first event is to celebrate the opening of the brown trout season by joining other southern anglers to fish the Derwent for the New Norfolk club’s inter-club challenge, BBQ and prize pool.
President 4 years Secretary 7 years Committee since 1996 STLAA delegate since 1996 STLAA President 4 years STLAA Vice President 3 years delegate to the state-wide body (FACT/AAT) 12 years STLAA Committee since 2001 Editor of Trout (STLAA annual publication) since 2002 Life Member of STLAA
I wish to thank all members for their support over the past year and I look forward to the 2014-15 season which I believe will be even more successful and enjoyable. Neil Pinkard - President
His involvement in all Club activities has been omnipresent and enthusiastic. His attention to detail has been noted and acclaimed – so much so that he has been
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Clarence anglers recognised our more active members in the past season through the following awards: Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Men (Trout)
Sam Pinkard
Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Women (Trout)
Sally Gregory
Heaviest Fish for Season - Junior (All species)
Connor Dermoudy
Heaviest Trout Field Trip (AC Walker Memorial Trophy) Neil Pinkard Heaviest Atlantic Salmon for Season
Bert Thunig
Consistent Angler Award
Bert Thunig
One Fly Perpetual Trophy
Norm Cribbin
One Lure Perpetual Trophy
Bert Thunig
Club Member Award
Jonathan Wadwell
Junior Member Medallion
Riley Blackwell
"ACE" Award
Jonathan Wadwell
Field Trip Awards (in chronological order): Derwent River
Ian Stokes
Derwent River
Neil Pinkard
Meadowbank
Norm Cribbin
Brumbys Creek
Bert Thunig
Tooms Lake
Vince Coyte
Swan River
Scott Garth
Arthurs Lake
Bert Thunig
Burbury
Vince Coyte
Arthurs Lake
Bert Thunig
Tyenna River
Bert Thunig
Little Pine Lagoon
Neil Pinkard
Woods Lake
Neil Pinkard
Tooms Lake
Jonathan Wadwell
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President: Rob Chandler Secretary: Patricia Woolley Treasurer: Cheryl Page Postal Address: PO Box 16, Huonville 7109 Contact: Ph 6260 130 Meetings: Bi-Monthly
Huon Licensed Anglers Association
M
y recollections of the fishing last season read like an echo of the previous year’s report….Pre-season excitement and anticipation soon waned as persistent rain through late winter and spring made for challenging conditions on the Huon. Those who could pick the right time when conditions settled were rewarded. At the risk of spoiling a poorly kept secret I believe some of the most reliable fishing to be had on the Huon occurred below the bridge during June and July.
In fact around seventy percent of our total catch was weighed in during 2013. While the number of Huon anglers who ventured to Lake Burbury for the Queenstown Anglers competition were down on other years they acquitted themselves well landing twenty six fish. Those who ventured to the highlands found conditions challenging. My recollections of highland excursions include pulling the pin early due to snow and sitting out gales at the Miena shack. Then when the weather finally turned it went so still the fish shut down! Casting pessimism aside, I am sure others had better luck than myself and when conditions were favourable the trout accommodated. Our anglers had little luck at (the normally reliable) Arthur's Lake, weighing in only three trout late in the season. The fishing on the Great Lake was relatively even from season beginning to end, accounting for thirty four fish. We weighed in twenty one fish from Woods Lake and seventeen from lakes Bradys and Binney.
During the traditional Brown trout season our members weighed in 224 trout, up from the previous season total of 175. Unfortunately the average size was down from 713 to 630 grams. Our junior anglers produced some particularly nice fish with two being weighed in at over two kilograms. The Huon River and tributaries accounted for one hundred and seventeen trout. One hundred and one were weighed in before the New Year. Annual prizes: Heaviest Fish for Male: Larry Paul - 3,390g
Most Fish for Male: Larry Paul - 41
Heaviest Fish Female: Deanne Murtagh – 666g
Most Fish for female: Jenny Woolley - 4
Heaviest Fish for Junior: Jesse Paul - 2,838g
Most Fish for Junior: Matthew Paul - 33 Jesse Paul - 9 Grace Woolley - 6
Junior Runner Up: Jayden Harris - 2,500g Closest to Average Weight for a Trout: Larry Paul - 630g
Closest to Average Weight for a Salmon: Matthew Paul - 1,065g
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Our Annual Dinner held at the Calvert’s Park Hall, Judbury in July this year was well attended. I take this opportunity to thank the Social Committee, and the ladies who provide salads and desserts for their efforts. Special thanks to our sponsors Griggs Butchery who provided the meat for our dinner and Social weekends and Rod and Range who assist throughout the year with prizes for our raffles.
In 2012/13 we caught forty eight Atlantic salmon, half the number from the 2011/12 season. Last season our members weighed in 7 salmon with an average weight just over one kilo. This was well down on the 1.8kg average from the previous year. Unfortunately (for us) the salmon farmers are doing a better job of holding their fish. New sea cages and handling techniques appear to be making mass escapes a thing of the past.
I would also like to thank the members who attended our shack working bees and particularly acknowledge the efforts of our Secretary, Patricia Woolley and Treasurer, Cheryl Page.
Last Season our senior membership dropped slightly to thirty six and the number of junior members improved to twenty three. It is pleasing to note the gains in junior member numbers as it demonstrates a commitment by families to support the club and should assist in providing a solid membership base into the future.
Rob Chandler - President
Huon Licensed Anglers Club Shack
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President: Mal Reardon Secretary: James McIlhenny Treasurer: Mark Gardam Postal Address: PO Box 242 Kingston 7051 Meetings: Last Thursday of month.
Kingborough Anglers Association
Fifty years and going strong, our club celebrated with finger food and drinks at the Kingston Golf Club. One of the founding members Colvin Smith and his wife attended, with Colvin reading the inaugural meeting minutes. Other guests were John Diggle of IFS and Laurie Harrison from STLAA.
Our major Nursery.
sponsor
is
Greenhill
A special mention to: Adrenalin Flies, Baily Marine, Club Marine, Kingston Auto Repairs, Liquid Gold, Mal’s Hire and Hardware, Tonic Eyewear.
Greg French was our guest speaker and entertained everybody with a lively talk, and a slide show of some exotic trout fishing destinations and plenty of fish Graeme Davis did a great job of organising the celebration.
The IFS celebration of 150 Years of trout at the Salmon Ponds was very successful and on the Sunday, Kingborough Association assisted in running of the Fly Casting competition under the leadership of David Hemmings. Our team won the Club event, with G Davis winning the individual casting championship. Well done to our team members and thanks to the IFS for their sponsorship of this event.
Competition weekends were well attended during the year with a total of 368 fish caught; these results are listed below: J Barwick Opening W/E G Davis Derwent River T Kruiswijk Bronte Area T Kruiswijk Woods Lake T Kruiswijk Arthurs Lake G Davis Bronte Only G Davis Overall Winner T Kruiswijk Overall Ranking G Davis Best Conditioned Fish T Kruiswijk Most Fish on a Fly G Davis
Our annual working bee was once again very productive with all planned work being accomplished despite the weather being drizzly. The members of the wood collecting party worked very hard as access to the tree was very difficult. The scones soup and drinks kept the workers happy during the day and was followed by an outstanding dinner with wine and beer that evening. Thanks to those who attended and also to those who attended the week previous to prepare for the group activity.
I would like to thank Tom Kruiswijk for organizing the sponsorship of our competition events. Competition Event Sponsor
The new building works at the Bronte shack are nearing completion with only a small amount of work left to complete. Hopefully the electrician and plumber will have finished their work by the end of June. I would like to especially thank Greg Atkins for his work in coordinating
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the new additions which have proved to be much appreciated by all those using the shack.
We will start the new season with a new president as my two years have now finished. We will have a new secretary as James has retired; thank you for all your work James. Mark Gardam will continue as treasurer and has been doing an excellent job. The club is in an excellent financial position with a strong membership base. Thank you for the support I have received during my time as president and I am sure the new office holders will have the same degree of support.
The club annual dinner and auction was well attended at the Southern Lights Hotel with a very good meal and entertainment by Peter Thompson and his guitar. Frank Hussey worked his magic with a “silent” and a “noisy” auction; this event adds greatly to our fund raising for the year. We would like to thank our very generous sponsors and Frank for his efforts in organizing this event. This year’s dinner will be held at Southern Lights Hotel on July 5th 2014.
Mal Reardon - President
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Lake Pedder Anglers Club
President: Matthew Mallinson Vice President: John Groves Treasurer: Natalie Rowlands Secretary: Sharon Mallinson Email: lakepedderanglersclub@bigpond.com Website: www.lakepedderanglersclub.com Contact 6265 3273
T
here have been many highlights this year including seeing the club pond established for charity fishing events, finally being used. This has been developed over the past 2 years and Able Australia and Camp Quality were hosted at fishing events which provided 100s of people with the opportunity to catch a fish, many of whom had never been fishing before. Steve Foster the driving force behind the development of the pond visited the Able day to see the pond event from his car. Unfortunately Steve passed away not long after attending our January Australia Day competition and is sadly missed by the club. At Steve’s funeral a guard of honour was formed with many club members wearing their tournament shirts.
forward to it each year. The Eddie Wigston memorial competition saw an increase in club members fishing Lake Echo and although the weather was a bit windy and cold, most caught a few fish to weigh in. Peter Reid was called on to retrieve a stranded angler on the eastern side of echo after his boat was grounded during the rough weather. This event is a good time for our club members to mix with other clubs and pass on a few fishing stories. In consultation with MAST, the club installed 3 further navigational beacons 2 were installed in Strathgordon Bay to assist with navigation to the boat ramp and a larger one located further down the lake this beacon enables people coming out of Stillwater passage to navigate safely to Strathgordon. From this beacons location Teds beach navigation light can be seen.
At the LPAC annual dinner held during the Winter at Pedder competition in June, Brett Brady and David Wright were awarded Life Membership. These club stalwarts were awarded this for their outstanding services to LPAC over many years. Members Martin Exel and Natalie Rowlands were awarded Service to Angling Certificates at the STLAA annual dinner in June. Martin and Natalie received this award for their services to the Lake Pedder Anglers club. We thank you for your dedication to our club and the public over many years.
Fishing report on Club Competitions at Lake Pedder Once again the Lake has fished very well with increasing numbers of fish caught at the competitions. June Long Weekend 3 day Competition – Winter at Pedder – 45 competitors attended the 2013 competition and 90 fish caught. Heaviest fish by Matthew Mallinson 1226 gms In September 2013 a Tiger Trail weekend Competition 2 day competition was held - 20 people attended and 40 fish caught. Heaviest fish caught by Richard Glowacki 956 gms
Three fishing competitions were conducted at Lake Pedder and two charity fishing events have been held at the club pond. The club came together to fish the opening weekend on the Derwent river for the interclub challenge. Each year we are seeing more members at this event and many look
January - Australia Day week 4 day competition – this is a public trout fishing competition held each January. Activities are provided daily for children. Although non member
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competitor numbers were down this year 525 fish were caught over the competition days and $3000 raised for charity at the Saturday night Auction. Heaviest fish caught by Martin Exel 1298gms and the Interclub challenge was won by LPAC.
and activities to occupy children are conducted on each day including movie nights and discos. Club records and history review has commenced in preparation for planning of the clubs 40th birthday celebration in 2016. Club memorabilia and mounted fish continue to be donated to the club so that a display on the clubs history can be established in the future at strathgordon. We are very lucky to have Lake Pedder open year round to angling, it provides the club with the opportunity to conduct the popular winter competition and one must wonder what a difference this would mean to other areas being open all year - imagine the income this would generate and the benefits to tourism, maybe one day.
Australia Day long weekend competition Committee Meetings are held monthly and are open to all members to attend. Over the past year increasing numbers of members have been attending meetings and expressing interest in assisting the committee which is rewarding to see. A meeting of the membership is held each June during the winter club competition at Lake Pedder. Holding a meeting at this annual event captures a greater number of members and members are given the chance to discuss the clubs progress and future direction. Approximately 45 members have attended this meeting held for the past three years.
Matthew Mallinson and John Groves
For the second year running membership demographics have maintained the rise of previous years in the 20 – 50 year age groups. At competitions younger members are now coming forward to assist with prize presentations and with support are learning how the club works. Younger members in high school are often seen these days teaching the committee computer skills and generally helping out around the club. Awards are offered for children at all competitions
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New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association
T
he 2013/14 season has past us by & the club has had another successful year with many events held during the course of the season.
President: Tim Lowe Secretary: Justin Causby Patron: David Triffitt Meetings: 3rd Wednesday of each month
The club also ran several junior angling pond days at our wonderful facility at Bushy Park & we would like to thank Bushy Park Estates for allowing us to use the pond & surrounds for helping us provide kids with the opportunity to learn how to catch a fish by getting the basic skills of angling that will hopefully continue for a life time. Must also thank Tassal & Inland Fisheries for providing fish for the pond.
Once again the season started with the opening weekend competition held between the members of the STLAA clubs. The fishing was superb with some great fish landed but in the end local knowledge paid off with New Norfolk taking home the shield. This competition could not be possible without it’s sponsors & the club thanks the following businesses Wigstons Sports, Wigstons Lures, New Norfolk Timber Yard, New Norfolk Hotel, New Norfolk Caravan Park, BWS, Norske Skog, Inland Fisheries Service & Craig Farrell MLC.
Junior Pond ‘Footballs’ I would like to thank members who helped out with the above mentioned activities as well as with the following events such as the Eddie Wigston Memorial & participating in clean up Australia day at Windsors corner. Tim Lowe accepting the Bridges Bros. Trophy from STLAA President and Patron
The club will again be hosting the STLAA family day at the junior angling pond & our own Christmas party will also be held at the pond so keep an eye out for the dates either on our facebook page or in the local Gazette.
The club held 7 competitions during the season with 208 entries weighing in a total of 404 fish with a combined weight of 255.039kg at an average weight of 631 grams. During the season members weighed in some nice fish from the monthly competitions with 6 fish weighing in over 3kg & one member landing a monster over 9kg but chose to have it mounted instead of weighing it in.
In closing I again would like to thank everyone involved in the club including members, families, partners & sponsors for all their support that made the season enjoyable for everyone. Tim Lowe – President
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“A Little Bit of Everything” 18 Patrick Street Bothwell TAS 7030 Phone/Fax: (03) 6259 5508
New Supply of Tackle, Flies, Lines, Rods, Waders, Clothing and other Fishing, Camping and Hunting Gear!
Take Away or Dine In Supermarket - Fruit & Vegetables Newsagency - Mercury Phone Credit - PAYG Power Ice - Swap & Go Gas Chemist Lines - Hardware Gift Lines - Hot Lava Jewellery Photo Express Machine Roberts Rural Supplies Come in and say G’Day to Andre, Leanne, Emma, Jake or one of our friendly staff Open 7 Days a Week Monday – Thursday: 6am – 6pm Friday: 6am – 7pm Saturday & Sunday: 7am – 7pm Public Holidays: 7am – 7pm
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Features & Special Reports ‘The Camp’ – Tods Corner Edited by Ray Aitchison of the Shoobridge’s. In winter this building was dismantled and transported to Miena and then boated to Tods Corner on a flat calm day which followed several heavy frosts. On crossing the lake it was found that thick ice prevented the boats from reaching the shore so the prefabricated portions had to be off loaded and slid over the ice for about 100 yards to the selected site.
R
upert Shoobridge first fished at Great Lake in 1910 when he was a jackeroo at Downie’s property, ‘Dungrove’, just out of Bothwell; he travelled to the lake on horseback. After World War One a group of friends and relatives namely, Rupert Shoobridge, a substantial property owner, Independent Member of the Legislative Council, New Norfolk Councillor for over 30 years, Warden for 2 years, Chairman of Committees and President of the Legislative Council 1947 to 1955 , Knighted in 1947. He was also involved with the Hobart Legacy Club, the Council of Forestry League and the Royal Agriculture Society of Tasmania. Richard Page, owner of ‘Redlands Estate’, Plenty, New Norfolk Councillor and Warden for many years. Ken Shoobridge, brother of Rupert. Cecil Penney, part owner of Bushy Park Estate and Arthur Watchorn, regularly fished Great Lake and initially would drive to Miena and stay at the accommodation house. From here they would row their boats across the lake to Tods Corner, mostly dragging the boat over the sand bar joining McLanachan’s Point in preference to rowing around the point, at this time Tods Corner was a shallow swampy area.
Sir Rupert Shoobridge
After a period the party decided that if they were going to cross the lake to Tods Corner each trip they may as well set up a camp in that area. On most occasions they erected tents on the northern point of Tods under a huge gum tree.
After this the building was re-assembled and forever after known as ‘The Camp’. The building was unique in that the southern wall was lifted and propped up, almost reaching the outside fireplace. This functioned all right until the winds came from the south or south-west and then the building filled with smoke. After several years of this changes to the structure overcame this problem.
Eventually they decided to erect a permanent building. During 1928 Ken Shoobridge, with carpenter, Norm Westerway, constructed a building at ‘Coniston’, Glenora, the home property
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Later on material for shelves, benches, seats and for other needs was scrounged from the dam sites. After the multi arch dam was built at Great Lake the thick Oregon pine boxing that was not wasted by burning was left at the site as was some of the machinery and tools as no allowance had been made in the budget to retrieve any of this for future use. Many of the early shacks in the area made use of some of this material.
vehicles would be left here and they would then boat across to ‘The Camp’. Latecomers would light a fire to signal those that had arrived early to return and pick them up. There was a track, developed early, that did follow the shore line but this was eventually flooded. Another very rough track was cut higher up on the bank and in 1928 a vehicle was first driven to ‘The Camp’, with much difficulty, it wasn’t until the late 1930’s that there was a reasonable track around Tods Corner. There were two Huon pine dinghies at the camp but in 1936 a fifteen foot galvanised iron riveted boat was added to the fleet, the boats were powered by three and a half horsepower Johnson outboards. Most trips were for five days although on rare occasions these were extended to up to ten days. During these periods there were many cold spells with thick snow and numerous frosts, after a big freeze it was not uncommon for the ice to be a foot thick (thirty centimetres) and at one time with rising winds the ice plates washed up on the shore were seen to be four feet six inches (1.35 metres) high. There must have been some cold times in ‘The Camp’ as the building was unlined.
First camp Tods Corner, (L to R) Rupert Shoobridge, Cecil Penney & Ken Shoobridge, 1922. During World War Two four extra rooms were progressively added, these were, the Blister, a bunk room and so named because of its appearance, the Annex, the Kitchen and the Snoreatorium. This last room was behind the fireplace where snorers wouldn’t bother other residents. With all these extensions the fireplace was now indoors. The original fireplace which would take a mountain of wood was reported as being very inefficient and it was later altered with good effect. In the early days travelling to ‘The Camp’ involved opening and closing eighteen gates but after the passing of a Boundary Fences Act fences were built and gates removed.
Initially Ken Shoobridge was the cook and also did the washing up but after he passed away in 1953 Rupert (now Sir Rupert) took over the cooking duties with Cecil Penney accepting responsibility for the washing up. Ken Shoobridge built an oven out of a forty four gallon drum which was named the ‘Sparga’, it had a firebox underneath and shelves inside. It was built into the kitchen wall with part inside and the rest outside.
After ‘The Camp’ was built the group would drive into Tods Corner following the original track towards the opening of the bay to the sand pits where they always left one of their Huon pine boats,
There were some long standing rules for camp users – no one could stay there unless one of the original five was in attendance, after 1955 it was realised that if this rule wasn’t changed to allow
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sons to visit unaccompanied there would soon be no one left to use ‘The Camp’.
fourteen strikes for eleven fish, all around the seven pound mark. One of the most popular lures used in these times was the gum leaf wobbler, a spoon made of copper with a red stripe painted down the centre, but like most lures it is now out of fashion. Others used homemade spinners as well as imported Devon spinners and also those made locally such as by Clarrie Amott (an ex STLAA Committee member) which grassed hundreds of trout. Eventually flatfish became available and were used with much success. Many notable persons visited ‘The Camp’ over the years including Sir Hugh Binnie and Lady Binnie, Governor of Tasmania), Admiral Sir Guy Wyett and Lady Wyett and Sir Peter Crisp (Chief Justice of Tasmania). Also during the 1950’s, Sir Rupert had a bad fall from his tank stand at ‘Coniston’, Glenora, one day on his return from a trip to the lake. Amongst his injuries was a fractured hip and after this accident he did not fish anymore but still went to The Camp where he concentrated on the cooking. One of his specialties was sheep’s head soup (without the wool removed) the wool was ladled off before serving. Extra was bottled and given to visitors to take home; it is believed that most of this was poured on the roadside in transit. Towards the end of the 1950’s his leg gave him much trouble and the travel was very uncomfortable. He would drive to the Tods Corner turnoff and someone would walk out and meet him there and drive his car into The Camp. He realised on one trip that he had ceased to enjoy these outings and he never returned again.
Cecil Penney at the cleaning table 1927. Radios were banned, this changed in the 1950’s but they were only used to listen to the news, once that was finished the radio had to be turned off. If guns were in ‘The Camp’ it was frowned on to shoot the wildlife beyond meeting personal needs. Dogs were not permitted, although Lady Binnie, the Governor’s wife, did take her dog there one trip. It bounded into the building and Richard Page shouted, “Who brought this bloody mongrel here” when Lady Binnie said “I did” Richard patted the dog and went on to tell he what a lovely dog she had. Until about 1950 the average size of fish was seven pounds, on one occasion Rupert and his son John, (later more commonly known as “The Bruny Bomber”) who never really took to fishing, made two trolling runs of about half a mile in Tods Corner and had
Until the 1960’s the main purpose of ‘The Camp’ was for fishing with all taking this activity very seriously, always starting at dawn, and then having a break when the bell was rang for
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breakfast and then again fishing from mid afternoon until dark.
front door and there was much vandalism occurring, bait fishers often set up camp next to the buildings and helped themselves to the firewood, ‘The Camp’ was often illegally entered. On one trip in 1971 two drunken males were set up in the building with a mate in a caravan nearby.
As more people got around the boats could no longer be left pulled up on the lake shore and it was necessary to build sheds to house them securely. One boat was taken twice but the Shoobridge’s managed to find and retrieve it.
The Hydro Electric Company warned that all trees below the high water level were to be felled and consequently the huge gum tree that had provided shelter and shade for just on fifty years was felled by a contractor. It landed on top of ‘The Camp’ crushing the building. Eventually a scrub fire burnt most of the remains. Some blocks of concrete are all that remains to mark the site of ‘The Camp’.
Sir Rupert who was the Patron of the Southern Tasmanian Anglers’ Association from 1951-52 to 1961-62 and also the New Norfolk Licensed Anglers’ Association from 1954 to 1958, passed away in November, 1962 soon after completing his last term. With increases to the dam height ‘The Camp’ was often cut off by water with visitors having to wade across to what was by now known as Shoobridge Island. The low water levels of 1966 and 1967 caused many problems at ‘The Camp’ as anyone could drive right to the
Arthur Watchorn, Rupert Shoobridge and Cecil Penney fishing at the Beehives, 1925.
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Upper Derwent - Highland Lakes Region Weed control 2013-14
H
i all, as much as I would like to make this heading sound exciting to you, the topic is not on fresh water fish and therefore, a hard sell. However what we are endeavouring to do is contribute to good management of the water catchment area that supports trout fishing. Another successful season has passed, our third in fact and we are now planning for our forth. The Derwent Catchment NRM Committee and fellow collaborators;
Southern Highlands Progress Association Kingborough Anglers Association Bridgewater Anglers Association Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association Many private land owners in the Highland Lakes and surrounds Tas-networks Crown Land Services, Parks and Wildlife Service, Invasive Species Unit (DPIPWE), Central Highlands Council, Norske Skog, Tasmanian Land Conservancy, Inland Fisheries and Hydro Tasmania. Forestry Tasmania Department of Infrastructure, Energy & Resources (DIER) have again contributed in some form to weed control around the various catchments of the Central Highland Lakes.
This season saw effective follow up treatment and new progress made at most sites. Bradys Shack Area saw follow up control occur at the dam wall on English Broom plants, along the fire trail at the back of the shacks and on number of private blocks. Bronte Lagoon at Woodward’s canal saw a start on the mature English Broom plants. Spanish Heath in Bronte Spill way also received follow up control. Dee Lagoon received further work under the wooden Aurora power poles. A weed working bee provided follow up on Gorse at Brownie Bay. The Great Lake saw English Broom & Gorse control at Dud Bay & Beamont Memorial The proposed Ragwort control program for the eastern side of the Great Lake did not get off the ground AGAIN this season; this has not been from lack of lobbying Hydro Tasmania. Interest in this issue is starting to build, however
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we need money to effectively resource this project. The Derwent Catchment NRM Committee is still encouraging all organisations to keep the issue alive and lobby hard to ensure Hydro Tasmania acknowledge the issue and effectively support the program.
program money and staff to clear all English Broom Plants growing along the edges of Thiessen Crescent and other Council roads at Miena. Control works are planned to occur October December 2014. Clearing will involve cutting large mature plants off at ground level and painting the cut stump with roundup solution. All large plants will be carted away as works progress. Derwent Catchment have been involved in the planning, works will be completed before seed has formed, therefore eliminating the risk of spread of seed in transit. All remaining small English Broom plants will be hand sprayed before the Xmas holidays.
Liawenee Canal, Lake Augusta Road, Western Lakes, Lake Sorell and Lake Crescent are other sites that received weed control works from both volunteers and Parks & Wildlife Service this season. The Orange Hawk Weed at the old Hydro village site at Butlers Gorge received follow up treatment, as did the old Shannon village, Miena, Derwent Bridge, Flintstone Waste Water Treatment Plant and Poatina Main Road.
Pin Markers Those pin markers, what are they for and when are they coming out of the ground? No doubt if you have been driving to places such as to Lake King William or Thiessen Crescent, Waddamana Road Shannon River Bridge area.
Bertram’s Island in Little Pine Lagoon received some attention from Entura, which resulted in a number of emails and letters between Hydro Tasmania, the Anglers Alliance, Parks & Wildlife Service and Derwent Catchment regarding six willow trees at this site. Eastern side of Arthurs Lake down to Connorville and across to Interlaken received Ragwort control. DIER contributed to weed control along the Marlborough, Lake, Lyell & Poatina Roads. Private land owners in the highlands contributed to Gorse and English Broom on their land. Well that's the overview of the weed program, if you are interested in helping out in your patch please don't hesitate in calling either Josie Kelman Derwent Catchment NRM Facilitator 0427 044 700 or Kathy Van Dullemen on 6254 1311. Weed control is important in ensuring the area we love to be, stays in pretty good shape for years to come.
These pin markers were placed two years ago and mark where the Orange Hawkweed plants are or were. These markers assist future survey and control work by providing a location guide where plants are, were and if they have successfully been killed with herbicide.
The 2014-15 Season is currently being planned. Central Highlands Council have budgeted and placed on their works
Kathy Van Dullemen.
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A Fishing Trip on the Lake River from a 1904 publication by David Wright (supplied by Ray Aitchison)
L
et me here relate one of the most enjoyable and best angling trips the writer has had on this beautiful trout stream. ‘Xmas coming on a Monday was an opportunity not to be lost. The season had been dry, and the river at its best, as a slight fall of rain on the mountains had discoloured it, and made it perfect for spinning. There were three of us, all well seasoned veterans, who had camped out together on many a trout stream, so therefore had the necessary swag together in no time; for the true sportsman can always be told by handiness of his kit, and the short time in which he can get it ready to catch boat or train.
splash, right under the opposite shore, beside that bush, a four-pounder if he’s an ounce. We say, “Now steady, old man, don’t let the shadow of those long legs of yours go on the water.” But he is too old at the game, and goes a little lower down, and crosses over a shallow, and creeps up under cover of the overhanging tea-tree. Flop goes the Devon. “A little higher up,” we call in a stage whisper. This time a swirl, and the tapered rod bends nearly double. “I’m into him,” shouts B., his well known battle cry. Then the fun begins. Upstream and downstream, sometimes showing his beautiful side, then off again in a different direction. But the strain is too great, and soon he comes to the surface panting. “Bring the net, one of you. Now when I bring him past this bush. Well done; first blood, three and a half pounds, now for the next.”
Away we started, catching the 8 a.m. train to Longford, where a trap, already ordered, was waiting for us. A drive of seven miles, through fields of waving corn, ready to cut, and rustling to the slight breeze, and a bright sun overhead, put us in good spirits with ourselves and the world at large. We pitied the farmer toiling in the field, and wondered why he did not catch the enthusiasm also, and go fishing in such glorious weather.
Two go upstream and one down. I take the downstream and succeed in grassing four well-condition fish, and return to camp, and find them preparing tea. B. Only had one more, and W. bagged five; so we settle down for the night; and what a night – the stars shining brightly overhead, just seen here and there through the scrub, and the smoke from the fire curling straight up, a sure sign of a fine day on the morrow. Each one tells how he missed one big fellow, through some fault, of course not his own, and it is remarkable the number of big fish that get away when the day’s sport is being related around the camp fire.
However, we were soon at the river side, and picking a snug spot under some overhanging scrub, with the river gurgling music to our ears. By common consent and old custom, one collects firewood, while the other two pitch the tent, and soon the welcome call of “Billies boiling; tea ready, lads,” bring us round the fire, when the smell of grilled chops, mingled with the scent of the numerous flowering shrubs, give us appetites that even anglers might be proud of,
However, next morning we are up early and eating breakfast to the music of hundreds of small birds, who seem to rejoice on such a beautiful day. Gradually the east gets a beautiful gold, and old Sol pops the ring of his face above the distant mountains, the locusts
B. had just finished, and was coolly filling his pipe and making nasty remarks to us about the quantity we were putting away, and stating that we only had tucker for three days, etc., when
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The ‘Xmas of 1900 was the best allround trip we had on the Lake River. The fish took well for three days in succession, and the weather was perfect all the time, and lovers of nature, which I think all true sportsmen are, will agree with me, that camping out on some beautiful stream, or rocky dell, to listen to the various night sounds, and smell the sweet odours from the different scrubs, is an oasis that lives in our memories with fondest recollections for many a day.
begin their droning, and remind us it is time to be off. As on the previous day, I go downstream, B. and W, up. We fished all day, and never have I seen the trout take better. In the evening we counted our bags, 56 trout was the total. Another glorious night and then back to town the next afternoon, to be ready for work the following morning – many times since, and I hope of times again, to camp on this my favourite trout stream, where we can nearly always reckon on a good basket.
Hector Jones’ recollections This unpublished script was made from a taped interview with the late Hector Jones by Darrell Walker and the late Len Dimmick on the 2nd of December, 1990. Len gave this copy to Ray Aitchison. Verbal permission was given by Mrs. Dimmick on June, 25th, 2014 for it to be used for the Angling Report.
might have had a drink there. We set off again and got nearly to Osterley.’
ector said “... it was 1925, and I was 17 years old.” The vehicle on which they travelled that sad day was the first motor vehicle used by the Fisheries to transport fingerlings to the lakes. The vehicle was owned by a fellow named Charlie McShane, who had a shop at New Norfolk. “Of course, Father knew him pretty well, it was a flat tray you could describe it now. It had a tray back and a canvas hood.”
‘Coming off the bank there was a rotten old wattle tree bough, and it was hanging over the road which was pretty narrow. There was a rut in the road and the driver was trying to prevent the vehicle skidding as he tried to get it out of the rut.’
‘The accident happened there sometime in the morning, and I can remember the road quite vividly. There was white sandstone through there. There was a crown in the middle of the road where the old bullock drays used to run.’
H
‘Before he could correct the vehicle the bough hit the windscreen just about in front of where Dad was sitting. It smashed the windscreen which was straight across. The driver turned the vehicle around and we went back to Ouse. They took Dad into the parlour of the hotel, and I let the fish go into the Ouse River, with old Jack Cashion. They got on to Dr. Bryant who was at Hamilton, and after Jack Cashion and I returned from letting the fish go, the doctor had arrived. I think Dr. Bryant went to live at Oatlands sometime after this event.’
‘The seat was wide enough to seat three people. I was on the back with the fish, but I was not cold, as the weather was pretty right. We did not worry about the cold in those days. We set off in good time from Plenty in the morning, and we were going to the Dee River, which came out of Lake Echo. We were going to spend the night at the hut of Mr. Squires. Father had a look at the fish at the bridge at Ouse and they were all right. I think that they (the men, Ed.)
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‘Dad’s head was smashed in on the lefthand side and the doctor probed around looking for pieces of glass. Then they organised another vehicle, an old T Model Ford owned by a namesake, a Mr. Jones, and we set off for Hobart. At this time Dad did not show any signs of consciousness but later rallied a little. Mr. Jones rattled the old T Model Ford along and it was getting rather hot. Cashion and I were sitting in the back of the Ford. Dad never regained consciousness but he did moan from time to time.’
assistant. The only money that the Fisheries received was from licence fees. All the family helped Dad including Mum. I had just left school at the Plenty and Dad wanted me to go on to the school at New Norfolk, riding the pony, but I was not very keen on that. I was picking up a few bob at Redlands and around the place. I used to get up each morning and mow half the big lawn at the Ponds before breakfast and then go to school. At this time Dad’s salary was about 18 pounds per month, when he had started at the Ponds his salary was five shillings per day.’
‘At Ten Mile Hill, Granton. Dad showed some signs that he might be coming out of it, but we eventually got him into what is now known as the Royal Hobart Hospital, but was then known as the General Hospital. We got to the hospital before dark.’
‘Old grandfather Stannard and grandmother Stannard lived down by the Derwent River. He used to drink a bit, and one night coming home he fell down when getting through the fence on one of the frostiest nights in living memory and was found dead the next morning.’
‘He died soon after we got to the hospital. Mr. Jones then took us back, and I think the Jones family still lives around Ouse. Mr. Jones dropped us off at the Plenty and old Jack Cashion walked up the road with me. The road went up the river from the railway station. This was the way into the Ponds in those days, and it went through the Redlands property.’(Jack Cashion lived near the Railway Station, Ed.)
‘The Terry boys, including Red, (who later became a Surveyor and was twice President of the STLAA, Ed.) when we used to go fishing together, would tell stories about old man Stannard. The Stannards had a nice garden and a cow and she used to flog the butter. The Terry boys used to live on the northern side of the Derwent, and used to row across the River then walk along the railway line to school at Plenty, passing the Stannard home on the way. They would pinch her gooseberries through the paling fence.’
‘There was an inquest held at Hamilton in the old council chambers into Dad’s death. The inquest was conducted by the Magistrate, Mr, Turner. At the inquest a piece of evidence which was presented was the actual limb which had impacted onto the windscreen. I gave evidence at the inquest and answered the questions alright. It was suggested at the inquest that the driver might have been drunk, and, in later years, when I was in charge at Plenty, I always impressed on those driving Fisheries vehicles to be careful not to mix drinking and driving.’
‘John Stannard had a nice garden at the Ponds, and I found a plan of the gardens at the Fisheries, it was said that grandfather used to hide his rum bottles in the bushes in the garden. Grandfather’s son Harry took over the Ponds for a while when he was aged 24.’ ‘Dad took over the Ponds in 1891. Grandfather Stannard was the offsider for Mr. Ramsbottom in 1864. They pensioned John Stannard off and he and Grandmother Stannard left the Ponds
‘Just before his death, Dad was the only worker at the Ponds and I was his
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where they used to live and moved to the house down by the Derwent. When Mr. Ramsbottom died, John Stannard took over the Ponds. When Dad died there was no superannuation and Mum was left, and I was the only active person at home, as my sister, Ruby, was an invalid. My brother, Les, used to come and go.’
me pretty well. Mum moved into Charles Street, New Norfolk, with my sister Ruby, around 1930-31.’ Note by Ray Aitchison – Hector remained in charge of the Salmon Ponds until 1959 when he took the position of Secretary of the Inland Fisheries Commission. He retired from that position in 1971 having spent all of his working life with the Fisheries. He gave his time freely and often spoke at Club functions where he readily shared his wealth of knowledge and experiences. Those who knew him will vouch that he was an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to know.
‘The Fisheries gave Mother the job, or rather, they gave her the money and I did the work. In 1926 I was appointed Caretaker at the Ponds. At this time the Sea Fisheries was the overriding body and Inland Fisheries came under that body. Mr Harry Cramp was appointed Chairman and Mr. E. P. Andrewartha was appointed Secretary. These people were like fathers to me and looked after
17 lb 10 oz. Rainbow trout caught by C. V. Batchelor, an Association member, in January, 1935, Ouse River. He went for a few casts while his wife prepared their meal.
The first dam at Great Lake, built by shepherds. Area below dam was known as “The Blood” hole, due to number of fish killed by shepherds with pitch forks.
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My Season that was 2013-4 by Jan Spencer
T
he 2013-14 season was a difficult one if the angler was not willing to diversify and be competent in most angling methods. Early season most lakes with hard body lures and soft plastics did well in our boat. As the weather warmed and the aquatic life activated, so did the fly rods and for the majority of the season weighted lines were used. The dry fly supporters had a really disappointing year, although I found the Bronte system fished well on the dry fly before Christmas. Nineteen Lagoons were reasonable early but very hit and miss through the middle of the season.
Jan’s Black Spinner Hook: K405 #12 Tail: Black Cock Fibres Body: Black Goose Biot Rib: Fine Copper Wire Hackle: Black Cock
Great Lake sharks were scarce only due to the weather as blue sky days were few. Soft plastics did really well over the weed beds in the big lake. Arthurs Lake produced a lot of small fish but amongst these there were some really solid fish of a kilo. I can see Arthurs Lake in the next couple of years being magnificent. Woods Lake is still the place to be for exceptional fish. Our season was good because we worked really hard and used many methods.
Jan’s Great Lake Red Tag Hook: B160 #12 Tail: Red Uni Floss 1X Body: 2 Peacock Herl Palmer: Indian Ginger Cock clipped Hackle: Indian Ginger Cock
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Spinning supplied by Ray Aitchison This article on spin fishing was published in 1904. It indicates the changes and developments in gear that have occurred over the ensuing 110 years, (thank God for most of these changes).
made out of lighter wood makes either a good spinning or fly rod. Steel-ribbed rods. – These are plaited all along with very fine, tough steel wires, which stiffen the rod, and makes it very strong. Up to the present time they have not been used much in Tasmania but are coming into favour very much in the old country. I have used one myself, and found it very powerful and quick killing. A good rod for spinning where fish run large, and should I say would make a splendid rod for Great Lake fishing.
A
s this is the class of fishing which engages our attention when the season opens, the rod most suitable for spinning in the Northern rivers should be, in my opinion, about 10 feet six inches or 11 feet long, with three joints; and first, in my estimation, I would place a good built cane one.
The Reel. – I think I may safely say the one most favoured for spinning is Malloch’s patent, and I think it certainly deserves the good name that it has earned for itself amongst anglers. It is very simple in construction, strong, and effective in use, and will last for years. It can be made out of gun metal or aluminium. The aluminium is lighter than gun metal, but is more expensive, and I think for river fishing a three and a quarter inch gun metal one, with reversible spring, is about the best.
This class of rod is exceedingly strong and pliable, and yet at the same time is stiff enough for the heavy work which all spinning rods have to do. The rings should all be upright, and fairly large, with one of Bickerdyke’s patent swivel end rings, with about a three-eighths opening. This class of ring allows the line to run out freely, and causes less wear on the line than the ordinary fixed ring. The rings on spinning rods are very often too small, and do not allow the line to run out freely. With a rod of the above description, an angler will have no difficulty in casting a bait 20 or 30 yards, and, if his tackle be strong enough, be able to kill the biggest trout that swims, even in the Great Lake, and there are some in that fine sheet of water that will turn the scale at 30 pounds or more. Although I think the above class of rod the best, still, the price for a good built cane rod is so high that it is out of reach of most anglers to indulge in such a luxury. However, a good greenheart rod can be bought for a very moderate sum. This wood is very extensively used for rod making, being close grained and tough, and pliable, and with a butt joint
A Malloch spinning reel. This size will hold all the line one is likely to require, and is not so heavy or expensive as a larger size; although for Lake fishing I would recommend a three and a half or four inch one. The
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Nottingham reel is also a good one, and is very free in its action, but it takes some time to get into the knack of using it properly. It is more complicated than the Malloch, and you are rather apt to over-cast with it, if you are not very careful. It is an expensive reel, the price for a good one being about 45 shillings, as against 30 shillings for a Malloch’s.
strong single trace, about one and a half or two yards long, with three swivels, and an end swivel; or, if the spinner has a swivel in the head, then the end swivel on the trace is not necessary. The twisted trace is stronger than the single, and, perhaps, when the water is discoloured, it might be advisable to use one, as in the event of getting caught in a snag or overhanging limb, you have a better chance of jerking it free without breaking your trace, and thus save both trace and spinner. But, on the other hand, it is much stouter and easier seen by a fish than a single gut. In clear water I always use the single. It is very necessary to inspect the loops of your trace now and again, after it has been in use some time, to see that they are not chafed, as casting a heavy spinner continuously is very hard both on trace and line. Baits are so many and various and I will only mention two or three, which have proved good killers in Tasmanian rivers. The Devon I think is a favourite with most anglers, and is a very good allround bait, and I believe more fish have been killed with it than any other. The Eelskin Phantom is also a very good bait. It does not spin so quickly as the Devon, but is more natural in appearance, being very much like a small blackfish; and when it is thoroughly soaked is soft, and fish will often come at it several times.
An early model Illingworth spinning reel. The line should be a good plaited waterproof silk one, of medium thickness, and about 30 to 40 yards in length. I myself use a 30 yard and back it up, with a cheap hemp line, so as to fill the reel well up. If the line is too thin it soon wears out, as there is nothing so rough on a line as spinning. Before using it the first time it is always advisable to run your line out its full length, tie one end to a post, and stretch it well, then grease it with a piece of cold mutton fat. You will find this will have to be done several times before the line runs out quite free from kinks. After using one end for some time, it is a good plan to run the line off the reel and use the other end. This helps to take the kinks out, and makes the line last longer. A good line well looked after in this way will last for several seasons.
A Phantom minnow lure The hard metal spinner, such as a Devon, will not often be taken a second time by the same fish if he once touches
Traces. – Some anglers use twisted gut, and others the single. I prefer a good,
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it. Brown’s Phantom is another good bait, but is very expensive, and does not spin, or last as well as either of the above-mentioned. The Whitebait is a very good spinner to use in some rivers, but it is difficult to get in the right shape and weight. I have known some very good bags of fish to be taken with this class of bait in the River Mersey.
Different sized Archer spinners, bait fish were threaded onto this lure and the wings closed, these were then cast and retrieved like an ordinary lure. For those fishermen who prefer night fishing, the natural bait fixed to a Chapman or Archer makes a deadly bait, and the larger fish are often taken this way. The natural bait, being soft, the fish will come at it several times, and I think myself they smell the natural, and come at it with confidence. It does not seem to take well in the daytime, and I think the reason is that, being a slow spinner, the fish see the hooks too plainly, and give it a wide berth.
A variety of old Devon spinners Personally, I feel satisfied that I have got all I want for a good day’s fishing if I have in my box a couple of good Devons and a Eelskin that pleases me, and if I can’t catch fish with either of these, I feel certain that sprats are off the “bill of fare” with the trout that day.
Two eelskin type spinning lures
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My Collectable Fly Rod and Reel by Bob Ward The follow is a little history extracted from the internet about my “Abercrombie” split cane fly rod made by W.M. Southam of Sydney and “Beaudex” fly reel made by J.W. Young & Co, I hope you enjoy the history.
Fishing", July 1948, p380). Fisherman and author Zane Grey was reputedly impressed with the quality of the Southam cane rod used during his visit to Australia in 1936.
.M. Southam – Rod Maker Sydney, the best-known early split cane rod maker was Hardy Bros, England, with Sydney-based William Southam Pty Ltd and J M Gillies of Melbourne well regarded.
W
William "Bill" Southam began making rods in Sydney in the early 1930s. By July 1948 William Southam had premises at 419 Pacific Highway, Artarmon and promoted themselves as 'Rodmakers to Australia's Leading Anglers' (see advertisement "Outdoors &
Advertisement "Outdoors & Fishing", July 1948, p380
My “Abercrombie” split cane fly rod made by W.M. Southam of Sydney and “Beaudex” fly reel made by J.W. Young & Co.
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other companies, a situation which continued right up to the Second World War, at which point the factory switched its output over to making parts for aircraft instruments and, interestingly enough, the brass surround for the Spitfire gun firing button.
J.W. Young & Co.
The family threw themselves back into the tackle business in 1946, but with a considerable change in direction whereas once they had been happy for the Youngs name to remain in the background, it was given a much higher profile post-war. This was the first time many anglers realised how dominant Youngs had become in the reel market and it marks the period when Youngs began to decide what their reels should be called instead of their competitors; so it is from this moment that their reels become really collectible. The four main lines the firm produced were the Beaudex and Pridex fly reels; the Rapidex centrepin; and the Ambidex, although new reels were added to the range, including a multiplier, as the years rolled past. By 1959, the company was undisputed king of mass market British reel manufacturing and very few post-war anglers in Britain have not owned a Youngs reel at one time or another.
This famous British family business was probably founded in 1894, although it is possible that they were making tackle on a small scale ten years before that. The reason for the uncertainty is that for most of the firm’s history, its products were sold wholesale, being retailed initially by Allcocks, but also by a long list of other companies, the list including Albert Smith, Arjon, Carl Goluch, Daiwa, Farlow, Garcia, Hardy, Milward, Peek, Eaton & Deller, Ogden Smith, Hamlin, Herters, Sealey, Shakespeare and Orvis. This means that a particular Young’s reel was often known by different names depending on who was retailing it, adding extra interest to collecting them, since the same reel can be often found with vastly different colour schemes and finishes. It seems that all the work J.W. Young did in the early years was on Allcock’s behalf, but as the economic situation improved after the First World War, the firm became more adventurous and built what became known as the ‘Mayfield Works’ on the site of an old apple orchard in Redditch, the town at the heart of the British tackle trade. By 1925, Youngs were making five different reels, none of which bore their name, because they were all sold by
The sixties were a tough time for the British tackle industry, which was facing increasing competition from overseas and had failed to retool and redesign its products so that it could compete. Youngs was no exception to this, the Ambidex, for example, having been given little more than cosmetic updates since it grown a full bale arm. The unstoppable rise of Mitchell and far Eastern imports led to a merger with Allcocks in late 1963, inevitably the Youngs name was submerged in this venture, although the famous lines of reels continued to be made. By 1965, a further merger had taken place, to form a conglomerate called Top Tackle, but this
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was a very short lived venture, which was promptly taken over by Shakespeare. In 1966 Jim Young was instrumental in introducing a magnesium alloy multiplying fly reel which was later called the Fish Hawk, and other ‘Young’ lines were designed, including the Beaulite, the Condex, the Speedex. and three reels marketed by Orvis and known as the Battenkill Ultra-light’ range. Jim was happier with the idea of working as a subcontractor, so in early 1970, he and Roger Bayliss formed the Swift Manufacturing Company, which built reels exclusively for Shakespeare; this situation continued until they discovered the J.W. Young & Sons company name was still available in 1983. Their recreation of a reel making business under this name explains why J.W. Young are still trading today and make needless to say - one of the best lines of modern centrepins available, a real classic, the Purist.
If you would like to read more, try Elwyn Attwood's J.W. Young and Son, published by the Medlar Press. This comprehensive history of the company covers the many reels that Young's made in great detail, as well as providing a tremendous amount of background on this great, but elusive manufacturer of British fishing tackle. Everything is there, from the early days when J.W. Young operated as a satellite of Allcock's, to the final days of the old company before it disappeared into the short-lived Top Tackle venture. Visit the modern J.W. Young and Sons website here.
In 2001 Masterline International, now known as Masterline Walker acquired J W Young. Under the new arrangement Jim set up his own workshop, Concept Engineering where he continued to make the components for the centrepin reels which are now assembled in the Masterline works in Tewkesbury with final inspection being undertaken in person by Jim. In 2010 Jim sold out Concept Engineering to his former employee, Garry Mills who still supplies the bulk of the components to Masterline. Although officially retired Jim still retains his consultant role to Masterline and personally inspects the production up in Tewkesbury.
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Great Lake Beetle – a Mystery Solved? by Neil Pinkard
S
ome time ago I was given some fishing tackle that belonged to my wife's grandfather, and in one of his round Bakelite ALBA tackle boxes I found several flies, one of which I identified to be the pattern called ‘Great Lake Beetle’. Ever since I have been endeavouring to identify which insect this pattern imitates.
The text states "This fly was originally created to imitate the Chrysomelid Paroposis (sic) vulgaris which often occurs around the Great Lake during summer or early autumn." I was told that this refers to a beetle commonly known by anglers as a ‘Gum Beetle’, but I was sceptical that the pattern imitates the ‘Gum Beetle’ as it differs quite significantly from our usual gum beetle patterns which are simpler patterns (mainly a green/olive/grey wing case of raffia or foam over yellow/orange/brown body made from wool or seal’s fur or similar dubbing – with or without 6 stubby legs).
Great Lake Beetle
Foam bodied Gum Beetle Could it be an imitation of the Jassid or another beetle that has red or orange under the wings? At least the Jassid has red on its body!
Bakelite ALBA tackle box This pattern is recorded in Max Stokes’ iconic record, ‘Tasmanian Trout Fly Patterns’ which was first printed 1978, and then reprinted in 1999. He attributes the pattern to the well-known fly tyers, Malcolm Gillies and W (Bill) McCausland. The pattern involves a black body with splayed wings made with “grizzle cock hackle feathers dyed reddish/orange”.
Jassid
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My mate, Norm, then referred me to the renowned book ‘The Lure of Fly~tying’ by “Fadg” Griffiths which includes a Great Lake Beetle dressing by JM Gillies who said that he copied the natural beetle “which when stranded upon the water always has the wings extended.” Further, it says, “the pattern will take fish, in Tasmania, or in any part of Australia for that matter, as well today as it did when it first appeared upon the scene.” Gillies was clearly proud of the pattern as he said “It is a grand fly”!
that “parop” displayed 2 ‘Eucalypt Leafbeetles’, ie Paropsisterna Agricola and Paropsisterna bimaculata. (It appears that the Latin name in Max Stokes’ book was misspelt.) Was one of these the ‘Great Lake Beetle’? Neither of their images looks like the pattern to me!
The Great Lake Beetle dressing in this book is:
It wasn’t very long before I had a response from Dr Simon Grove, Senior Curator, Invertebrate Zoology at TMAG “Thanks for your enquiry. The scientist in me wants to deconstruct your question. First, I'll assume that by 'gum beetle' you mean 'leaf-beetles that feed on eucalypts'. Then, I'll assume that we're just talking about the 'true' leafbeetles in the family Chrysomelidae, and are restricting ourselves to the tribe Paropsini which includes all the large eucalypt leaf-feeders. That done, I can tell you that in Tasmania there are 8 or so described species in the genus Paropsis, about 17 in the genus Paropsisterna, and 6 in the genus Trachymela. Note, however, that there are quite a few further species in these genera in Tasmania that have yet to be formally described. If you'd like to learn more about these, I suggest checking the following paper:
As the app had a contact address for more information I put the following questions to the experts behind this app “How many ‘gum beetle’ types are in Tasmania? Is there a ‘Great Lake Beetle’?”
Tying silk: Black Hook size: 10-14 old scale Body:
Black cock’s hackle, palmered closely on to the hook shank and then clipped to make a plump, wellformed body
Hackle:
Dyed scarlet cock hackle
Wings:
Two badger cock hackle tips, dyed scarlet, cut off so the ends are square
A side play was going on at this stage as Norm and Don conducted their own research to try to find ‘P. vulgaris’ on the net. Part of their discussions related to the colour ‘scarlet’ possibly because gum beetles rarely have scarlet, but sometimes a copper or bronze colour – they do have many colour variations as evident in the selection below. Perhaps hackles that have been dyed orange would be closer to the natural beetle.
http://eprints.utas.edu.au/17460/1/2011_ -_De_Little.pdf So, from this, I deduced that what we call gum beetles should be called ‘Eucalypt Leaf-beetles’ and there are lots of different ones in Tasmania, including 8 in the genus Paropsis – so I read the paper by David W de Little however none of them had the name Paropsis vulgaris. I was getting closer but I still didn’t have the answer.
I still didn’t feel confident that the GLB imitated the Gum Beetle. Further research was required. The next development came after I downloaded an app on my iPhone called ‘TMAG Field Guide to Tasmanian Fauna’. I keyed in “gum beetle” for no response, so I then entered “Paroposis” but no response again but I did notice
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‘vulgaris’ was applied by Chapuis 1877 to a species collected from Victoria to Queensland, but not Tasmania. It may be the same species as the Tasmanian species we know as ‘variicollis’ or ‘obovata’, both of which were also described by Chapuis (1877). Many paropsine species are quite variable depending on age and sex of beetle, and this led to much confusion in the nineteenth century when European taxonomists were describing long dead specimens forwarded by local collectors.
Shortly another email arrived from Dr Groves: “I still haven't answered the second part of your question, “Is there a 'Great Lake' beetle?” I'm afraid I don't know. There would certainly be leafbeetle species restricted to the Central Plateau, and maybe even to the vicinity of Great Lake. I'll copy this email to the author of that paper, Dave de Little, who is an expert on these beetles and may be able to answer your question.” It wasn’t long before Dr de Little sent me an email and a pdf of a page from a text which had a diagram of a leaf eating beetle which was labelled Paropsis vulgaris! Eureka! I now was able to believe that the Great Lake Beetle pattern imitates a Gum Beetle, but I still wondered which one.
“The species of the genus Paropsisterna that are frequently stranded in lakes of the central highlands and fed upon in large quantities by trout are: P. bimaculata, P. agricola, P. decolorata, P. aurea and P. nobilitata, and therefore all of these species collectively might be referred to as ‘Great Lake Beetle’”. “I think the term ‘Great Lake Beetle’ is a trout fisherman’s concept and not an entomologist’s. It is therefore more correctly applied to a style of fly rather than an actual beetle species and it is probably modelled on a combination of all of those species I mentioned. Attached images show the variation in colours.” Post Script: I asked the following question of Dr de Little:
The beetle illustrated in Figure 29 feeds on Eucalyptus leaves both in the larval and adult stages. In occasional seasons vast numbers of these beetles are drowned in Great Lake and subsequently eaten by trout, hence the name, the “Great Lake Beetle” by which they are known to anglers.
“I note that the TMAG app states that the larvae can secrete a cyanide. Can the beetles? Do the beetles emit a cyanide? The reason I ask is that we have often observed that trout will often be caught when they have a gut full of beetles (so much so that they sound like a handful of wet gravel when palpated) yet they do not appear to be taking many beetles off the surface. Would the trout only be taking them after they sink? Would the beetles have a cyanide taste that dissipates after they have been in the water for some period?
Dr de Little explained further: “The attached PDF is copied from Evans, J.W. (1943) ‘Insect Pests and their Control’ published by Dept. Agriculture, Tasmania. Judging by the illustration, this beetle would now be placed in the genus Paropsisterna and formerly, genus Chrysophtharta. The illustration is not detailed enough to ascribe it to a species with certainty. The specific name
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P. agricola
P. decolorata
in flight
P. nobilitata
P. bimacula
P. aurea
Or would the opposite be the case, eg the trout only take the beetle as soon as it falls onto the water, and not the ones that we see floating in the surface that have been on the water for a period which may have cyanide surrounding them?”
the water with wings open to display red/orange. However there is another mystery to be resolved – “Why don’t we see trout feeding on gum beetles, sorry ‘Eucalypt Leaf-feeder beetles’, when the beetles are thick on the surface?”
The answer that I received is interesting but not definitive: “Yes the larvae can secrete a defensive, cyanogenic fluid that can kill small insects. The adult beetles do not emit a secretion but when disturbed ‘en masse’ I have been aware of an odour – when I had a sense of smell! From the detail of your questions it sounds as though you have some research to do – these are questions better answered by fishermen than entomologists – unless one is lucky enough to be both!”
Bibliography: ‘The Lure of Fly~tying’ by F. A. D. (“Fadg”) Griffiths 1978 ISBN 85566 398 7 ‘Tasmanian Trout Fly Patterns’ by Max Stokes 1978 ISBN 85853 032 5 ‘Insect Pests and their Control’ by J. W. Evans 1943 Dept. Agriculture, Tasmania ‘Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery Field Guide to Tasmanian Fauna’ Project Manager Dr Simon Grove 2014 TMAG iPhone app
Summary: It is quite believable that the Great Lake Beetle pattern was devised to imitate a Gum Beetle on the surface of
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Obituary In private life Eddy was a school teacher and became the first Headmaster of the Clarence High School where he introduced many new innovations. He was awarded an Order of Australia Medal. His wife, Zola, passed away about 20 years ago and he is survived by 2 daughters and 2 sons. Eddy’s brother Colvin (Col) was a foundation member of the Kingborough Branch which was formed in May, 1964. He was that Club’s first Secretary. Col was awarded Life Membership of the STLAA in 1983.
Edmund ‘Eddy, Smith This portion of the family bereavement notice is self explanatory.
A Memorial service was conducted on the anniversary of Eddy’s 100th birthday and as well as Col there were six other Association Life Members and the President and Secretary of the Clarence Club in the gathering.
Smith, Edmund Thomas 13-5-1914 - 30-4-2014 Passed away peacefully at Swansea aged 99 years 50 weeks. ‘Caught on the boundary’. Eddy was a member of the STLAA when it was a club in its own right (prior to 1965). He first served on the Committee in 1962-63 before being elected as President in 1963-64, 1964-65 and 1965-66. Eddy resigned from this position in February, 1966 as he had accepted the Government nomination as the Southern Associate Commissioner to the Inland Fisheries Commission. In February, 1969 he was re-appointed but this time as the STLAA. Representative, he filled this role until resigning in April, 1971. He was a key person in the founding of the Clarence Branch (now the Clarence Licensed Anglers Club) in June, 1964. This Branch became affiliated with the STLAA. in August, 1964. Eddy was awarded Life Membership of the S. T. L. A. A. in 1970. He returned to the Association Committee in 1979 as the Honorary Correspondent and held the position until 1987.
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Season 2013-2014 Photo Gallery
NNLAA - Tony Robertson with his 9.075kg brown trout from Catagunya
Justin Causby and Paul Worsteling – Laughing Jack Lagoon
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Rhys Murtagh - Great Lake
Michael Wright
Thomas Murtagh - Great Lake
Deanne Murtagh – Great Lake
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Eddie Wigston Contest winner Paul Browne from NNLAA
Chelsea Reid – Lake Pedder
Time Lowe – Sunset at Lake Pedder
Scott Bester - Lake Crescent
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3 Generations of the Linton family at a NNLAA junior day
Tim Lowe & Justin Causby won the Tasmania Trout Classic with a 34 fish bag on Arthurs Lake in 7 hours on Day 2
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Winners of the Lake Pedder June Competition
Garry Williams - Tooms Lake
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Jaydee Bester with a Tiger Trout – Craigbourne Dam Henry Ames - Lake Pedder
Lewis Spaulding won the Ken Morley Memorial for Most Consistent Junior, present by Barbara Morley
Justin Causby – Laughing Jack Lagoon
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Clarence Members – Lake Burbury
Jacob Britten – Tooms Lake
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Norm Cribbin – Lake Burbury Burt Thunig – Tooms Lake
Jonathan Wadwell – Craigbourne Dam
Vince Coyte – Tooms Lake
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Andrew Simmons – Tooms Lake
Mitchell Wiggins – Derwent River
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Neil Pinkard – Little Pine
Robin Henzler – Great Lake
Jake datlen – Tungatinah Lagoon
Andre Datlen – Tungatinah Lagoon
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Alec Smithurst – Lake Leake
Barbara Smithurst, Lake Leake
Rob Chandler – Huon River
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Central Highlands Lodge
The Central Highlands Lodge is located on the shores of the Great Lake in the highland village of Miena gateway to Tasmania's central plateau and world premier trout fishing waters with over 3,000 lakes. It is the most centrally located lodge to the famous fisheries of the Western Lakes, Arthurs Lake, Penstock and Little Pine lagoons, all of which hold an abundance of wild brown trout. The scenic drive from either Launceston or Hobart takes around 1½ hours and the Lodge is located conveniently to all of Tasmania wherever you are or want to go it's not far away. The Lodge has a lounge, private bar, two wood fire places and a restaurant/dining area. The menu is one to look forward to and includes traditional hearty home cooked meals, soups, delicious deserts and a superb collection of Tasmanian & mainland wines. After relaxing in the lounge by cosy log fires, comfortable rooms with crisp sheets on a pre-warmed bed await you. The room facilities include ensuite bathrooms, heating, electric blankets, fridge, TV and tea and coffee making facilities, with wader hanging racks outside. Rooms available include: 2 family units (2 bedroom units with heat pumps, one queen and two singles) 2 family units (2 bedroom units with heat pumps, table and chairs, one queen and two singles) 5 Double rooms (1 bedroom unit with two single beds) 1 Twin room (1 bedroom unit with queen bed) 1 spa unit and 1 spa cabin For more information about all the facilities and services we can offer please contact Mike or Helen T: +61 (0)3 6259 8179 F: +61 (0)3 6259 8351 Email: highlandslodge@bigpond.com.au
Under New Management and Ownership