RIVERCONNECT has celebrated 20 years of educating, engaging and inspiring Greater Shepparton residents to connect with and care for the region’s river environment.
A community celebration was held on Friday, November 21, at Victoria Park Lake to acknowledge the environmental program’s achievements since it began in 2005. Over two decades, RiverConnect has helped build a stronger appreciation for local waterways through events, community partnerships and nature-based education.
Mayor Shane Sali said the program’s longevity was a credit to the many partners who have contributed to its success.
“The team at RiverConnect provide opportunities for our community to value, protect and enjoy all the natural assets we have,” Cr Sali said. RiverConnect has brought together local knowledge, collaboration and commitment which has delivered a real difference in the way our community connects with the river.”
RiverConnect was established to foster a deeper connection with the Goulburn and Broken river systems, promoting care, respect and cultural understanding. The program has since expanded to include extensive school engagement, on-country learning, environmental restoration, recreational activities and collaborations with Traditional Owners, government agencies and community groups.
The program is managed by Greater Shepparton City Council in partnership with the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA).
GBCMA CEO, Carl Walters said at the celebration that recognising and protecting the river was an important, collaborative effort, and thanked everyone who has been involved.
“We’ve got Victoria’s most valuable river right in [our] backyard,” said Mr Walters. “Our collective job is to recognise it and not let people stuff it up. It’s a really important thing.”
RiverConnect continues to operate under its long-term strategic plan, ensuring it remains responsive to community needs and environmental priorities as it enters its next chapter.
