Reel school holiday fun: fish hotels help restore habitat at Copeton Waters Crown land holiday park

The Crown land holiday park at Copeton Dam in north west NSW helped promote environmental sustainability while hosting school holiday entertainment as part of a partnership between Reflections Holidays and sustainable fishing charity OzFish.

Vacationing students and their families got the chance to build ‘fish hotels’ at a fun-packed day of fishing and habitat creation on 2 October.

The event provided an opportunity to clean up the shoreline and create fish habitat through the construction of the fish hotels, which are innovatively designed wooden constructions that resemble a hashtag.

Criss-crossed wooden beams create a complex system of habitat that sits on the riverbed. Made from natural materials, they are environmentally friendly and an attractive location for native fish to inhabit.

The event came just ahead of the launch of the Reflections Sustainable Fishing Series, three angling competitions in premier fishing destinations at Crown land holiday parka.

Minister for Lands and Property and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said it was great to see Reflections Holidays and OzFish teaming to support sustainability of waterways.

“Keeping waterways clean and healthy, supporting fish stocks, and hosting catch and release competitions can help maintain a healthy ecosystem while supporting regional tourism that further benefits local jobs and businesses,” Mr Kamper said.

“This will support recreational fishing which is a great low-impact sport for people of all ages and abilities to relax, connect with nature and friends, and hone their focus and patience.”

Reflections CEO Nick Baker said the school holiday activity was a chance for children to not only have fun and spend time with their family, but also learn the importance of protecting waterways and fish habitats.

“This event created a window for families to get together in nature and work together to nurture the environment, and we’re grateful to our partners, OzFish, for hosting these activities in our beautiful park,” Mr Baker said. 

OzFish Engagement Officer Ivan Carter said: “Our partnership with Reflections Holidays is about getting people outdoors and creating events that provide the opportunity to restore habitats and enjoy recreational fishing at its finest.”

The Reflections Sustainable Fishing Series kicks offs at Reflections Copeton Waters (Series 1: November 1-3, 2024), proceeds to Reflections Burrinjuck Waters (Series 2: March 21-23, 2025), and concludes at Reflections Lake Keepit (Series 3: May 16-18, 2025).

All profits from entry fees will be allocated by OzFish, the only fishing conservation charity in Australia, to restore fish habitat in the local catchment area.