From Winter Wonderlands to Western Wonderlands

From Winter Wonderlands to Western Wonderlands

The Western Rivers Carer has returned from her annual leave, which was spent on the West Coast of North America, specifically British Columbia (Canada) and Washington / California (USA). A magical three weeks was spent exploring the natural world of the pine forests, national parks, ranches, Christmas tree farms, ice skating rinks, snowy mountains and bitterly cold weather (minus 21 degrees Celsius was the coldest day, however it did warm up to minus 18 degrees). The delights of historical sites, sleigh rides, ice skating, hot springs, Portland zoo, Disneyland, Vancouver Aquarium, food (loving the fresh salmon) and wine (Zinfandel) were also appreciated as old friends were visited and fine memories revisited.

In 2010, energies of the Western Rivers Carer will be focussed on continuing the community consultation work in the lead up to any Wild Rivers proposals /declarations over the Georgina and Diamantina Rivers and Cooper’s Creek in Western Queensland. I shall continue to promote the values of the Lake Eyre Basin and raise awareness of the importance of wise and sustainable water management in Western Queensland catchments in order to preserve and restore the ecological health and productivity of our rivers, creeks and floodplains. This work will be carried out in conjunction with the Australian Floodplain Association; the Cooper’s Creek Protection Group; The Wilderness Society and Pew Environment Group – Australia. For more information on this work, check out www.ausfloodplain.org.au.