Sammy J celebrates World River Day with Our Birrarung

Melburnians have been invited to celebrate World River Day with a jam-packed line up of events to close off the Birrarung Riverfest on September 22.

Federation Square’s Edge Theatre will play host to a day’s worth of exhibitions, entertainments and demonstrations about the Birrarung Yarra River.

ABC Melbourne host Sammy J will emcee the free event “Our Birrarung: Past, Present, Future”, kicking off at 11am.

The traditional Djirri Djirri Dancers and the Riverfest Concert Choir will perform, joined by entertainers Mal Webb, Kylie Morrigan and Wamba Wamba didgeridoo player Uncle Ron Murray.

Craig Barrie and Nicki Johnson, and Jeannie Marsh will also perform original songs, including The River Remembers and Hey Birrarung!.

“The day is a reflection and a celebration of our Birrarung, of how far we’ve come, and how far we have to go,” Riverfest producer Carolyn Tate said.

It’s a chance for people to reflect on their connection with the river, and what action they might want to take in future.

Ms Tate said the line-up of entertainers and experts would offer unique perspectives on Melbourne’s famous river using a wide variety of styles and genres.

“Sammy J is so irreverent and fun,” Ms Tate said. “We’re really looking forward to seeing him lead audiences through the line-up of events.”

The day will end with an audio-visual presentation of the Yarra Strategic Plan, a 50-year vision for the river, created by community organisations with Traditional Owners.

Birrarung Riverfest is made up of more than 30 events across September run by the Yarra Riverkeeper Association.

“There’s something for everything at Riverfest,” Ms Tate said. “It’s the work of many community organisations.”

“This is about helping Victorians fall in love with their river, because what we’re in love with we’ll protect and take care of.”

Tickets and more information about Birrarung Riverfest events are available.