The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to improve community access, waterway health and visitor experiences along the Barwon River.
Minister for Water Lisa Neville joined Wadawurrung Traditional Owners today to launch the beginning of Kitjarra-dja-bul Bullarto langi-ut Masterplan, which will set out Traditional Owners plans for creating a well-connected, diverse and healthy waterway.
Kitjarra- dja-bul Bullarto langi-ut is the Wadawurrung name for the project previously known as the Barwon Rivers Parklands Masterplan and translates to "places of many stories".
The Labor Government has invested $1.65 million to support the project as part of the Rivers of the Government's Barwon (Barre Warre Yulluk) Action Plan.
The Plan includes connected parklands and open green spaces, walking and running pathways, weed control, revegetation and improved access facilities such as platforms to support fishing, boating, rowing and canoeing.
The Barwon catchment is the most populated area outside Metropolitan Melbourne and this Masterplan will make sure our waterways stay healthy so locals and visitors can have access to more green space as the region continues to grow.
The project extends from the Moorabool River near Meredith, through the Barwon River in Geelong and out to Barwon Heads. Large sections of river frontage are part of Wadawurrung Country, including the internationally recognised Lake Connewarre wetlands and the spectacular Barwon River estuary.
The masterplan development will include engagement with a large range of government stakeholders, river user groups, sporting clubs, environmental groups and the general community.
A Strategic Advisory Committee will provide high level guidance for the project and a Working Group has been formed to deliver the project actions, with administration and project management provided by the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority.
As stated by Minister for Water Lisa Neville
"The Barwon and Moorabool Rivers are culturally, environmentally, and socially significant to the region and ensuring Traditional Owner aspirations drive its future planning is key to it thriving for years to come."
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
"Our partnership with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners is central to shaping the future of the Barwon River and its surrounding parklands."
As stated by Member for South Barwon for Darren Cheeseman
"This project will help improve the amenity and access to the Barwon River, giving the community more opportunity to enjoy this much-loved natural Geelong asset."
