Platypus populations in the Wangaratta area and wider North East will be supported under a landmark $24 million four-year, statewide initiative designed to improve critical streambank and aquatic habitats.

As part of the 'Platy Patch Project', North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) will undertake a range of rehabilitation works including riparian revegetation, extensive willow control and the installation of woody habitat along the urban waterway interfaces in the region.

These waterways include the Lower Ovens River and Three Mile Creek in Wangaratta and the Lower Kiewa River and House Creek in Wodonga.

NECMA will promote the project in a series of platypus themed events in collaboration with local landholders, traditional owners, councils, Landcare organisations, schools, artists and local businesses.

The project is jointly funded by the Australian government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, the Victorian government and Melbourne Water, under the guidance of the Arthur Rylah Institute, with the support of One Tree Planted, Zoos Victoria and other catchment management authorities.