The Goulburn River helped establish Shepparton to become the region’s food bowl with the construction of the Goulburn Weir in the late 1880’s, enabling irrigation for farms.
Greater Shepparton City Council Director Sustainable Development Geraldine Christou said “millions of people in more than 100 countries will be celebrating World Rivers Day on Sunday. Our rivers connect our communities, with the Broken River meeting the Goulburn River in the heart of Shepparton. Community members continue to enjoy what the rivers have to offer with fishing being a favourite pastime”.
“Come and join RiverConnect at KidsTown and enjoy some popcorn during a screening of the cinematic masterpiece 'River'. There will be lots of activities for the whole family and a free community BBQ” said Mrs Christou.
“From 1.30pm a small group will be provided the opportunity to attend a unique and memorable cultural walk on The Flats to learn about significant events and hear personal stories of life growing up on the banks of the Goulburn River by Uncle Rueben Baksh,” said Mrs Christou.
Our region’s rivers nourish our ecosystem providing important habitat for our native plants and animals including the threatened Squirrel Gliders, Koalas, Platypus, Murray Cod, Murray Crayfish, plus many more. Many native animals rely on the hollows in the river red gum trees and grey box trees for homes. Recognisable plants include river red gums, grey box, silver wattles, gold dust wattles, billy buttons, blue devils and kangaroo grass. With only 3 per cent remnant native vegetation in our region it needs to be protected.
World Rivers Day
When: Sunday 25 September
Time: 11am to 3pm.
Where: KidsTown and The Flats
11.30am to 12.45pm – Movie screening of ‘River’, family-friendly activities and free BBQ
1.30pm. Flats Walk tour (registrations taken on day)
To register for World Rivers Day please RSVP to RiverConnect on (03) 5832 9714 or via email riverconnect@shepparton.vic.gov.au.
