Central Coast Council is encouraging the community to join the fight against one of Australia’s most damaging invasive species by taking part in this year’s Carp to Croc. This fun, purpose-driven fishing competition educates participants on waterway health while putting catches to good use by turning them into nutrient rich fertiliser or donating them to the Australian Reptile Park (via BCF Tuggerah) for crocodile and alligator feed.
This month-long event begins with a free community launch at the Wyong Milk Factory on Saturday 28 March 2026, followed by a fishing muster running from 28 March to 26 April.
Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna, will officially open the event at 10.15am, followed by rod-rigging, flyfishing and electrofishing demonstrations, carp fertiliser how-to sessions and roving reptile demonstrations from the Australian Reptile Park. After the launch, community members will be encouraged to head to nearby Woodbury Inn Park and start fishing.
Mayor McKinna said the event is a fantastic way to bring environmental action and community spirit together.
“Carp are a significant problem in our waterways, impacting native fish species, biodiversity, aquatic plants and overall water quality,” Mayor 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.
“From experienced anglers to those casting a line for the first time, we encourage everyone to get involved, have fun and make a difference.”
Council Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said it is encouraging to see the fishing competition return for another year.
“European carp are one of Australia’s most damaging aquatic pests, degrading water quality and making up as much as 90% of biomass in NSW rivers,” Mr Loader said.
“Last year’s fishing competition showed how powerful community action can be in protecting our waterways, with almost 300 carp removed thanks to more than 100 local fishers. This year, we believe even more can be taken out of our environment. And thanks to our continuing relationship with the Australian Reptile Park, we can ensure those caught aren’t wasted but are used as a sustainable food source for reptile exhibits.”
Event details:
This year’s competition kicks off at the Wyong Milk Factory (141 Alison Road, Wyong) on 28 March (10am–1pm) with a free, family-friendly launch.
Event highlights:
- Fishing, electrofishing and rod-rigging demonstrations
- How-to sessions on making carp fertiliser
- Expert talks from OzFish, BCF, Central Coast Council, DPI, WaterNSW and more
- Prizes, giveaways and activities for all ages
Following community feedback, this year attendees will be encouraged to head to Woongarrah Waters or Woodbury Inn Park after the launch, where there’s ample space for everyone to cast a line and get fishing!
The muster competition will be run through the Fish Donkey app, with more details to be announced at the launch event and on Council’s Facebook event.
For more information, search ‘Carp to Croc’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or visit the Carp to Croc Facebook event.