Yarra Riverkeeper Association

"Rivers are the arteries of the natural landscape, and they are the centrepieces for most human settlements. Their vital role in sustaining life is manifest in the rich biodiversity they support and the attachments that communities form with them. Yet, our dependency on rivers is not generally reflected in our care for them. In Australia, where clean flowing water is becoming scarcer, the case for greater care is pressing.

We may urge governments to do a better job. But a large measure of responsibility rests with the community. In this vein, a model of community care for our waterways, inspired by the successful US-based Waterkeeper Alliance, is growing in Australia. Communities are forming waterway "keeper" groups, not unlike Landcare groups, to take an active role in restoring and protecting their local rivers and streams. Their work includes education to improve awareness of river health issues, and advocacy to give their local waterway a "voice" at the table with governments and other water users.

The Yarra Riverkeeper Association is a noteworthy case study in community care for this vital part of the landscape."

Ian Penrose , Riverkeeper.

Please help us protect Melbourne's iconic river by becoming a member of Riverkeepers. Download an application form here:

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION.

You can also download our brochure here:

DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

The Yarra Riverkeeper Association acknowledges the traditional owners of the Yarra River and its environs, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.