Join the Carp to Croc fishing muster

The Central Coast community is being invited to catch the invasive European carp in local waterways during the month-long Carp to Croc fishing muster, launching on April 5 at Wyong Milk Factory between 10am and 1pm.

European Carp pose a serious threat to local ecosystems, degrading water quality and displacing native species.

Carp to Croc is a chance to fish for a cause, learn about the importance of waterway health and put your catch to good use – either by cooking it at home or donating it to the Australian Reptile Park, via BCF Tuggerah, where it will be used as food for crocodiles and alligators. 

The month-long fishing muster will run from April 6 to May 5, with participants logging their catches via the Fish Donkey app, and prizes awarded at the end of the challenge.

The free launch event will feature fishing, electrofishing and rod rigging demonstrations; a carp cooking showcase; talks from experts at OzFish, BCF, Central Coast Council, NSW Department of Primary Industries, WaterNSW and more; exciting prizes, giveaways and activities for all ages.

Central Coast Council Water and Sewer Director Danielle Hargreaves highlighted the importance of community action in protecting the region’s natural ecosystems.

“Council is committed to maintaining and improving the health of our waterways,” she said.

“Events like Carp to Croc help raise awareness about invasive species while actively reducing their numbers.

“We’re excited to be partnering with the Australian Reptile Park to ensure these fish don’t go to waste, turning an environmental challenge into an opportunity.”

Australian Reptile Park Director Liz Gabriel applauded the initiative.

“The Australian Reptile Park is dedicated to protecting our native ecosystems, and invasive species like European carp pose a serious threat to our waterways,” she said.

“Carp to Croc is a fantastic initiative by Central Coast Council, and we’re thrilled to be involved.

“Not only does this event help the environment, but it also provides an exciting new food source for our crocodiles and alligators—they’ll love the extra variety.

“A huge thank you to everyone taking part.

“And if you’d like to see one of our biggest crocs in action, come visit Elvis, the largest saltwater crocodile in NSW, at the Australian Reptile Park, with feedings every day over the school holidays.”

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the event was a great way to combine environmental action with community engagement.

“Carp are a major issue in our waterways, affecting native fish species, biodiversity, aquatic vegetation and overall water quality,” McKinna said. 

“The Carp to Croc event is a fun and interactive way for the community to come together and be part of the solution by helping to manage carp and build resilience of native fish populations.”

For more information, search Carp to Croc on centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or visit the Carp to Croc Facebook event.