The Richmond River has a rich history from Bundjalung lore through being one of the busiest waterways in Australia in the 19th century to now needing our help to rejuvenate and make it once again the beautiful, drinkable, swimmable, and fishable river it should be.
Bringing everyone together over the next month is the Richmond RiverFest, which is being launched on World Rivers Day at Fawcett Park in Ballina on Sunday, 28 September from 10am.
The festival begins in Ballina, where the river meets the sea – a symbolic gathering point for all who share responsibility for the Richmond catchment. This year’s theme, ‘From Sea to Source – the river connects us all’, highlights the way our river system links people, places, and life itself – from the saltwater at the mouth to the freshwater springs upstream.
‘This year’s theme reminds us that whether we live by the sea or in the hinterland, the river connects us all. RiverFest is a time to celebrate what the river gives us, and to strengthen our commitment to making it drinkable, swimmable, and fishable again,’ explained Richmond Riverkeeper President, Zoe White.
Food, fun and a six-day trek
The launch of RiverFest will feature children’s activities, weaving, storytelling, live music and inspiring talks on restoration and river care. With free entry there is something for everyone. Food will be available for sale from seafood fresh from the river, sausage sizzle courtesy of the Outriggers Club, fresh coffee and vegetarian options. The event starts at 10 and finishes at 3pm with The Tinnie Adventure launching for it’s six-day trek up the Richmond River from Ballina to upstream of Kyogle highlighting the state of the river.
Month of activities
‘Across the month of October, Riverfest brings together Custodians, community groups, artists, educators, and conservationists in a shared commitment to honour and heal our waterways through celebration, connection, and action,’ said organisers.
From science and action to river touching, the Upper Richmond Carp Muster, free sessions of outrigging, tree planting and the Casino River Festival Day on Sunday, 12 October at the Queen Elizabeth Park, Casino there is something for everyone to get involved in and enjoy.
There is a full four weeks of events and activities throughout the Richmond catchment, including Rosebank, Clarence River, and The Channon with the finale of the Richmond Riverfest being the RiverTime at Lismore’s Victoria Street Park on Sunday, 26 October from 11am – 3pm.
‘This will be a vibrant day of live music, information stalls, weaving, children’s activities, dancing and storytelling and community connection – a powerful reminder of what it means to protect and care for Country and Water,’ said organisers.
For details on the full program, to register for events, or find out how you can support the festival, visit www.richmondriverfest.com.
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