Restoration projects play key role in Richmond Riverfest

RICHMOND Riverfest will return this month, with events across the region celebrating community-led restoration and volunteer projects.

The festival is presented by the Richmond Riverkeeper group and begins on Sunday, September 28 with World Rivers Day at Fawcett Park, Ballina.

Activities will include educational stalls from local conservation groups, kids’ activities on the water, and sustainable fishing workshops.

Events will continue throughout the month and culminate in Lismore on Sunday, October 26.

Highlights include a seniors nature walk along the Wilsons River, a come-and-try outrigging event, tinnie restoration trips and creative workshops with industry experts.

OzFish Unlimited is one of the hosting partners and will run several events including a fishing gear swap and a carp muster.

Another project will see 1500 native trees and grasses planted along a key tributary of Boomerang Creek to improve fish habitat and reconnect remnants of the Big Scrub rainforest.

Volunteers will be needed to support the work to strengthen wildlife corridors and provide habitat for aquatic life.

“Richmond Riverfest is a month-long celebration of the rivers, cultures, and communities of the Northern Rivers,” a Richmond Riverkeeper group spokesperson said.

“The festival brings together custodians, community groups, conservation organisations, artists, and educators to honour our river systems through storytelling, public events, and a shared commitment to protection and restoration.

“Riverfest offers opportunities to connect, learn, and explore how cultural knowledge, science, and community action can come together to heal the Richmond River.

“With a focus on listening to the voices of the river and empowering community-led restoration, Riverfest is a powerful reminder that when people gather in celebration and purpose, real change can flow.”

The festival is supported by the federal government and the North Coast Regional Landcare Network through the Care for Catchments project.