Greater Shepparton City Council and the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GB CMA) came together today to celebrate the renewal of their long-standing partnership, officially signing a new funding agreement for the RiverConnect program.
The agreement, which covers the period from 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2028, ensures the continued delivery of the much-loved RiverConnect initiative which is now in its 20th year.
RiverConnect is a unique partnership that brings together land management agencies, stakeholders and the wider community to foster a shared connection to, and responsibility for, the region's river environments.
CEO, Fiona Le Gassick, said the renewed agreement is an important step ensuring ongoing agency collaboration and community connection to the region's most valuable natural assets.
"This partnership highlights how effective collaboration can create real, lasting benefits for the community and environment," she said.
"RiverConnect helps people of all ages and backgrounds to discover, understand and care for our rivers, while encouraging shared responsibility and pride in the health of our river systems."
Since its inception, RiverConnect has supported a wide range of initiatives, including education programs, habitat restoration, community events and cultural storytelling, all aimed at building appreciation and care for local rivers within Greater Shepparton.
Carl Walters, CEO of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, said the renewed agreement reflects the strength and value of the RiverConnect partnership.
"The GB CMA is proud to fund RiverConnect because it is a great example of what can be achieved when organisations and communities work together with a shared purpose," Mr Walters said.
"This agreement allows us to continue supporting meaningful engagement with the Goulburn and Broken rivers and the surrounding landscapes through the urban areas of Shepparton and Mooroopna, while strengthening our collective commitment to caring our waterways."
Celebrating two decades in 2025, RiverConnect continues to champion collaboration, community engagement and environmental care, and today's signing is a testament to the strength of its partnerships and the shared vision for a thriving river environment.
