The Richmond Riverkeeper Association say they are excited to announce Dr Adele Wessell as the new Richmond Riverkeeper, while paying tribute to outgoing Riverkeeper Zoe White for her dedication and service to the Richmond River.
They said in a media release, ‘Zoe White’s tenure as Riverkeeper has been marked by tireless advocacy for the health of the Richmond River and its communities. Her leadership, including bringing urgent attention to last year’s devastating fish kill, has raised the profile of the river’s plight and laid a strong foundation for the work ahead. We thank Zoe warmly for everything she has given to this role, and are pleased that she will continue to contribute as an ongoing member of the committee’.
‘Dr Wessell brings a rich and deeply personal connection to the river she is now appointed to protect. Having arrived in the Northern Rivers in 1996, she has spent nearly three decades embedded in the region, building relationships, conducting research, and advocating for the communities and Country that define this place.
‘As an environmental historian and Adjunct Associate Professor with Southern Cross University, Dr Wessell’s research has centred on the Richmond River, its deep history, its relationship to the communities along its banks, and its enduring connection to the Custodians who continue to speak for Country.
‘Adele is the founder of the Richmond River Open Access Repository with Southern Cross University Library, ensuring the river’s history is preserved and accessible to all. She also serves on the Management Committee for Richmond Landcare and is a member of Wilsons River Landcare.
‘Adele’s public talk for the State Library of NSW, Starting with the Source, is available online. Her co-authored paper, Flowing in History: Reflecting on Past Practices and Their Influence on the Health of Richmond River Catchment, New South Wales, Australia, was published in River Research and Applications in 2025.
Dr Adele Wessell, Richmond Riverkeeper said, ‘The Richmond River has shaped this region and its people for thousands of years. I come to this role with deep respect for that history and for everyone who has fought to protect this river. My hope is that together, through knowledge, connection and action , we can work toward a river that is genuinely swimmable, fishable and drinkable. Not one day. Soon.’
Dr Wessell says she approaches the role with humility and curiosity, and with a firm belief that local knowledge, memory and lived experience are essential to understanding how the environment has changed and how it can be restored.
‘The Richmond Riverkeeper Association is proud to have someone of Adele’s calibre stepping into this role, and looks forward to the next chapter in the long story of the Richmond River’.
‘Newly elected to the committee of the Richmond Riverkeeper Association for 2026 are Professor Kelly Menzel, and Dr James Sippo. Continuing on the Committee in 2026 Associate Professor Adele Wessell (Riverkeeper), Professor Mandy Reichelt- Brushett, Zoe White, Dr Brendan Cox, Belinda Evans, Vanessa Ekins, Louissa Rogers and Dr Kristin den Exter.
Be a voice for the Richmond River
‘The Richmond River needs our voices joining in the call for a drinkable, swimmable, fishable river. The Richmond Riverkeeper Association brings together individuals, community groups and organisations who care about the future of this river, connecting people with research, advocacy and action.
‘Membership is open to everyone. Whether you live on the river’s banks, fish its waters, farm its catchment, or simply believe this river deserves better, there is a place for you in this association.
For more visit https://richmondriver.org.au/
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