Melburnians are invited to celebrate World Rivers Day with a jam-packed of events, culminating in Birlarn Riverfest on 22 September.
The Edge Theater in Federation Square will host a day of exhibitions, entertainment and demonstrations about the Birlarn Yarra River.
ABC Melbourne presenter Sammy J will host 'Our Birrarung: Past, Present, Future', a free event starting at 11am.
The traditional Jiri Jiri Dancers and the Riverfest Concert Choir will perform, joined by entertainers Mal Webb, Kylie Morrigan and Wamba Wamba didgeridoo player Uncle Ron Murray.
Craig Barry and Nicky Johnson and Jeannie Marsh will also perform original songs such as “The River Remembers” and “Hey Birrarung!”
Riverfest Producer Carolyn Tate said: “This is a day to look back at our Villarunnes and reflect on how far we've come and how far we still have to go.”
This is an opportunity for people to think about their connection to the river and what actions they would like to take in the future.
Mr Tate said the line-up of entertainers and experts would use a variety of styles and genres to provide a unique perspective on Melbourne's famous river.
“Sammy J is a very irreverent and fun person,” Tate said. “We are really looking forward to watching him lead the audience through a series of events.”
The day will conclude with an audiovisual presentation of the Yarra Strategic Plan, a 50-year vision for the river developed by Traditional Owners and community organizations.
Birralun Riverfest is made up of over 30 events held throughout September by the Yarra Riverkeeper Association.
“Riverfest has it all,” Tate said. “This is a lot of community organization work.”
“This is about helping Victorians fall in love with their rivers, because what we love we protect and cherish.”
Get tickets and more information about the Birlarn Riverfest event.
