River Champions

Embark on a captivating journey as we explore the culturally and environmentally significant Gulpa Creek wetlands in Southwest New South Wales, nestled within the Millewa Forest. Comparable in importance to the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo, these wetlands play a vital role in the environment. Explore the fascinating stories of the Australasian bittern and the unique creation story linked to the Murray River. Witness the richness of Gulpa Creek's ecosystem, encompassing rare species and an enchanting soundscape of water birds, with the preservation of this unique area evidence of the collaborative efforts among local communities, Aboriginal groups, landholders, and the government's Water for the Environment department. Thank you to our guests who featured in this episode: Paul Childs, Senior Environmental Water Management Officer  Kevin Atkinson, Bangerang Elder - https://bangerangculturalcentre.com.au/   Dr. Liz Znidersic, Gulbali Institute Charles Sturt University - https://www.csu.edu.au/research/gulbali/home  Ian Davidson, Chair Murray Darling Wetlands Working Group  - https://mdwwg.com.au/   If you’d like to learn more about the Gulpa Wetlands and surrounding areas,  please use the links below: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/water-for-the-environment/planning-and-reporting/water-for-environment-outcomes-2020-21/murray-and-lower-darling  https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/gulpa-creek-forest-walks/learn-more https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/news/survival-of-threatened-waterbird-chicks-a-top-priority-in-gulpa-creek-wetlands  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by the NSW Water for the Environment

Explore the remarkable restoration of Paika Lake wetlands in New South Wales in this episode, detailing its extraordinary transformation after a century of disconnection. Through a collaborative effort between local landholders and the NSW Government's Water for the Environment program, the wetland has been reinstated, now hosting a thriving ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife. The episode underscores the environmental significance of wetlands, emphasising their role in carbon storage and water quality improvement. Delve into success stories, including the return of endangered species and the flourishing biodiversity. Join us for this inspiring episode on the rejuvenation of Paika Lake Wetlands! Thank you to our guests who featured in this episode: James Maguire, Senior Environmental Water Management Officer  Di Williams Lake, Paika Station Peter Morton, Landholder If you’d like to learn more about the Paika Lake and the Murrumbidgee area, please use the links below: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/water-for-the-environment/murrumbidgee/annual-environmental-water-priorities-2023-24  https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/news/habitat-creating-an-environment-for-success-in-the-murrumbidgee  https://www.dcceew.gov.au/water/cewo/catchment/murrumbidgee  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by the NSW Water for the Environment

Whittaker's Lagoon, nestled in the middle of cotton plains, is an oasis brimming with life. In this episode of the River Champions Podcast, we explore the cultural and ecological significance of this hidden gem. From the birdlife and aquatic species that thrive in its waters to the collaborative efforts of the Water for the Environment team and the local community in its restoration, Whittaker's Lagoon is a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature. Join us as we delve into the fascinating stories and connections that make this lagoon a cherished part of the Moree region. Thank you to our guests who featured in this episode: Daryl Albertson, Senior Wetlands and Rivers Conservation Officer David Preston, Conservation Officer Wetlands and Rivers Kerrie Saunders, Yinarr-Ma Bush Tucker Tours Harry Davey, Ozfish If you’d like to learn more about Whittaker’s Lagoon and initiatives in this episode, please use the links below: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/water-for-the-environment/planning-and-reporting/water-for-environment-outcomes-2022-23/gwydir  https://www.australias.guide/nsw/attraction-tour/moree-plains/moree/yinarr-ma-bush-tucker-tours/  https://ozfish.org.au/projects/whittakers-lagoon-nsw/  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by the NSW Water for the Environment