River cruise is love letter to the Birrarung

Can you imagine what the Yarra-Birrarung River would be like if its water ran clear?

A river cruise hosted as part of the Birrarung Riverfest will pose this question and more over a morning tea before a panel of local experts.

Research fellow, Barkandji woman Zena Cumtpson, environmental author Harry Sadler and 2023 Victorian Environment Friends Network Young Environmentalist of the Year Sophie Hart will share their words on the river, expanding on the Woi Wurring concept of “Burndap Birrarung burndap umarko”.

“What’s good for the Yarra is good for us all.”

Riverfest producer Carolyn Tate said the title came out a desire to help locals renew their connection with the city’s river.

“It’s a very personal thing a letter,” Ms Tate told CBD News.

“It’s an opportunity to greet, meet and connect to the river in a unique way, and for these wonderful speakers to share their connections with the Birrarung.”

The one-off event on Sunday, September 8, will be hosted aboard the river cruiser Yarra Queen and is proudly supported by Melbourne River Cruises.

“Melburnians don’t get on the Yarra River often,” Ms Tate said. “Usually, it’s tourists that end up travelling on the river.”

“This cruise is for Melburnians looking for a different perspective than they would get travelling to work or walking beside the Yarra.”

The cruise begins at 11am with a Welcome to Country by Wurundjeri man Daniel Ross.

Yarra Riverkeeper Association (YRKA) president Janet Bolitho will host.

The YRKA is hosting more than 30 events across September as part of the second annual Birrarung Riverfest in aid of a healthier Yarra River.

Tickets for the Letters to the Birrarung Melbourne River Cruise and more information about Birrarung Riverfest events are available online.