Construction of Fish Ladders at Buckley Falls, Geelong

Overview The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) is seeking a contractor for the construction of fish ladders at two key fish passage barriers on the Barwon River within the Buckley Falls area on Geelong's western fringe. About These two barriers have been identified as the highest priority barriers within the Corangamite Region and represent the most significant barrier to native migratory fish movement in the area. The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority has prioritised these sites to ensure the Barwon River has in-stream connectivity. Purpose The project will provide fish passage for at least 12 native fish species on the Lower Barwon River, including the EPBC listed Australian Grayling (Prototroctes maraena). The project particularly addresses reconnecting aquatic habitats by improving passage for migratory fish species, which is expected to have flow-on benefits to the aquatic food chain and health of the river. Scope This Contract is for the construction of two (2) fish ladders located on the Barwon River at Buckley Falls in Geelong. The scope includes: Construction of a fish ladder at Site A (Up-Stream fishladder design), a hybrid style fish ladder addressing a height differential (headloss) of approximately 4.5m, consisting of concrete cone baffles to create the required elevation within a confined space and a nature-like channel utilising the natural bedrock for the fish way exit Reduction of the artificial concrete capping at Site A, where required, to allow for a more natural flow regime and less height required in the fish ladder design Construction of a fish ladder at Site B (Down-Stream fishladder design), a nature-like rock pool fish ladder on the southern bank, creating a series of approximately 13 pools to help fish ascend upstream towards the next barrier Design and construction of the Site B fish ladder to resemble the natural basalt rock substrate and build up to the barrier height to avoid excavation Delivery of the works in a manner that blends with the natural environment while maintaining public access and viewing areas at the site