General
6 December, 2025
Inglewood Fish Stocking Association Alive and Swimming
For over 35 years a dedicated group of volunteers in Inglewood has worked tirelessly to breathe life back into local waterways. The Inglewood Fish Stocking Association Incorporated (IFSAI), established in the mid-1980s, has been at the heart of fish restocking and freshwater conservation efforts in the region, and the impact of their work can still be seen and felt today.
It all began in 1986, when the association carried out its first official fingerling drop, releasing thousands of juvenile fish into the local river from below Coolmunda Dam to Sunny Girl Weir. What started as a small community initiative quickly grew into a highly organised and effective conservation effort, one that continues to play a crucial role in the health of the region’s aquatic ecosystems.
Since that first drop, IFSAI has released an impressive number of native species into the area’s waterways:
• 32,349 Silver Perch
• 468,579 Yellowbelly (Golden Perch)
• 110,711 Murray Cod
The total: over 600,000 fish reintroduced to the region, an extraordinary achievement by any measure.
“Our aim has always been to improve the health of the river systems and provide sustainable opportunities for future generations,” said a spokesperson for the association. “Stocking these native species helps restore balance to the ecosystem and supports both recreation and environmental goals.”
Working closely with state authorities, hatcheries, and the local community, IFSAI has contributed not only to biodiversity but also to local tourism and recreational fishing in the broader Goondiwindi region.
The organisation has played an important role in advocating for responsible water management, hosting fundraising events, and encouraging younger generations to get involved in environmental stewardship. Their efforts ensure that Inglewood’s rivers and creeks remain vibrant, resilient, and teeming with life.
Though the group often works quietly behind the scenes, their 35+ years of service have not gone unnoticed. Locals and visitors alike have reaped the benefits of healthier fish stocks, improved river health, and greater public awareness about the importance of native species and conservation.
However, as the demands of environmental stewardship grow, the need for new volunteers has never been greater. IFSAI is calling on anyone who is passionate about protecting the environment, restoring local habitats, and helping to manage the fish restocking efforts to join the cause. Whether you’re an angler, an environmentalist, or simply someone who cares about the future of the region’s waterways, there is a place for you.
“Volunteers have always been the backbone of our work,” said a member of the committee. “But as we look to the future, we need fresh faces and new energy to continue this important work. There’s something deeply rewarding about giving back to the land and water that sustains us all.”
Looking ahead, IFSAI remains committed to its mission, adapting to modern challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and habitat degradation. And with their proven track record, there’s little doubt they’ll continue to be a pillar of environmental care in southern Queensland.
As Inglewood reflects on the achievements of this remarkable group, one thing is clear: the legacy of the Inglewood Fish Stocking Association is not only alive — it’s swimming.
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