THOUSANDS of fish could be grown in one location when the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group completes its hatchery behind Outback at Isa.
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The hatchery will also be used to grow barramundi for future Lake Moondarra Fishing Classics.
Previously, small barramundi were ordered from Karumba and then grown in containers in local backyards.
Power installation of the hatchery for the pumping systems was completed last week by CNW Mount Isa and Dave Clancy Electrical, a significant milestone before its opening scheduled for early October.
Light fittings, outlets and cable were donated by CNW Electrical and installed by Clancy Corporation.
Mount Isa Fish Hatchery co-ordinator George Fortune said the next stage of the project was to install 10 kilowatt rooftop solar panels.
Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group president Steve Farnsworth said there would also be seven viewing tanks at the front of the hatchery.
These would include the sooty grunter, barramundi and sleepy cod.
“We will try to get more exotic ones people don’t fish for but are good to look at,” Mr Farnsworth said.
Clancy Corporation managing director Dave Clancy said he supported the hatchery and the classic because of what it meant to the community.
“People come from all over the country especially for the tagged barramundi,” he said.
“I try to get my kids on the water, and when they catch a fish, the look on their faces – it does not matter the size.”
CNW Mount Isa branch manager Dave Diehm said the company wanted to support a local project.
“We understand the importance of the event being able to sustain fishing for all the community,” Mr Diehm said.
Glencore has sponsored the hatchery with $235,000 through its Community Program North Queensland.
George Fisher Mine manager Stu Reid said the company supported the hatchery to support recreation and to increase local fish breeds.