Healthy Rivers Project

In a truly inspiring partnership uniting DCCEEW (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water), NCCMA (North Central Catchment Management Authority), Barapa Barapa mob, Damien Cook of Wetland Revival Trust, and Bear and Twigg. Together, our collective effort is dedicated to enhancing the vitality of the 12 Mile Creek and Loddon River ecosystems, nestled within the Lower Loddon floodplains near Canary Island.

Mission and Focus

At the heart of this partnership lies a commitment to fortify the health of the natural environment, improve ecological conditions, and bolster social resilience. Our focus centers on the Native Fish Recovery Program, as well as extending a warm welcome to our local indigenous custodians back to their ancestral lands. Our goal is to plant an impressive 10,000 riparian plant species and 2,000 aquatic species across an expansive 39.7 hectares adjacent to the 12 Mile Creek at Canary Island. This encompassing effort also spans 1.9 kilometers of the 12 Mile Creek frontage.

Aquatic Restoration Strategy

The centerpiece of our restoration endeavor involves a meticulously crafted aquatic revegetation plan. Five distinct modules of revegetation will be thoughtfully implemented along the course of the 12 Mile Creek. Each module's design includes a strategic extension of 1 meter into the waterway, a 3-meter ascent up the bank, and a 40-meter stretch along the bank. As time progresses, these plantings will naturally propagate, weaving an intricate tapestry that replaces the current root-stock. This transformation will yield an ideal sanctuary for the conservation of endangered native fish species, ranging from the esteemed Murray Cod and Golden Perch to the delicate Southern Pygmy Perch, Purple Spotted Gudgeon, and Olive Perchlet.

Rejuvenating Riparian and Littoral Zones

Our conservation efforts extend to the riparian and littoral zones. We are committed to introducing 10,000 riparian plants, including an assortment of trees, shrubs, grasses, saltbushes, forbs, and flowers, all of which are native to the Canary Island region. Over time, this landscape will blossom with increased diversity, casting refreshing shade and offering protection from the wind. The result will be a more intricate and healthier ecosystem that beckons the return of other indigenous flora and fauna.

Community Collaboration

Guided by the expertise of our tree planting contractor, Charlie, we're proud to collaborate with the local Barapa Barapa community. This partnership not only imparts hands-on experience in planting native vegetation but also creates a safe and nurturing space for discussions about the profound significance of cultural connection to the land. Through this collaboration, we aim to foster an enduring and meaningful relationship.

Project Evolution

Initiated in the spring of 2022, the project saw the dedicated efforts of Barapa Land & Water, resulting in the planting of over 1500 trees. However, a significant flood event in October posed an unforeseen challenge, inundating the area and unfortunately impacting the survival of the young seedlings.

As we enter August 2023, our journey resumes with renewed determination. The mission: to conclude this noble endeavor by September. Over a span of three weeks, the dedicated Barapa Barapa group will undertake the responsibilities of planting, safeguarding, and nurturing 10,000 native trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowers – all endemic to this region. Amidst these activities, stories will be shared, and moments of tranquility will be savored along the serene banks of the 12 Mile Creek and Loddon River.