Over the course of 2 days, and led by First Nations voices, interdisciplinary caretakers of water from Australia and overseas shared their river conversations using film, workshops, poetry, talks, story-telling and deep listening.
The Birrarung Council presented on the origins of the unique Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017, and the progress that has been made over the past 5 years.
This included the launch of Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo: Yarra Strategic Plan in 2022. Council members shared their thoughts on the importance of walking together to heal Country, and the power of the River to bring us together.
In the presentation, water from Birrarung at Warrandyte was infused with smoke from a smoking ceremony conducted by Uncle Dave Wandin, and participants were invited to take small vials of this water back to share with their own rivers.
Sharing water reminded us that we all exist in relation with the rivers and waters that support our lives.
The Birrarung Council received a gift of water from Burramatta/Parramatta River, which was infused with the waters of the Birrarung in December 2023.
The 23rd Biennale of Sydney included several rivers and bodies of water around the world as participants. Members of the communities associated with them, custodians, and people involved in their protection have spoken on their behalf, addressing climate issues and rights of protection.
Uncle Dave Wandin spoke on behalf of Birrarung.
River Voices - Birrarung / Yarra River
Page last updated: 19/11/25