The Edward Kolety–Wakool Environmental Water Reference Group aims to provide a local voice on the management of environmental flows in the region.
Formation
The Reference Group was formed in 2016 and is supported by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH).
In 2021, the Reference Group's membership was refreshed to ensure representation remained current. It was important the group incorporated new and emerging community interests and voices.
Work and activities
The Reference Group helps advise and inform environmental water planning, use and monitoring in the Edward Kolety–Wakool rivers region. It meets twice a year.
An example is the development of an approach for delivering water to local river systems following natural high flows in 2021. This approach built on lessons learned during the 2016 floods.
The CEWH will continue to consult the group in developing the annual water management plans for the region. This ensures a strong link between government and community.
Current members:
- Ali Borrell, Murray–Darling Wetlands Working Group
- Dennis Gleeson, Community member
- Greg Lodge, Wakool Rivers Association
- James Dyer, NSW Department of Planning and the Environment
- Jamie Hearn, Murray Local Land Services
- Jeanette Crew, Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre
- John Lolicato, Wakool Rivers Association
- Maggie McDonald, Community member
- Michael Pisasale, Murray Irrigation Limited
- Paul Childs, NSW Department of Planning and the Environment
- Robyn Watts, Charles Sturt University
- Roger Knight, Western Murray Land Improvement Group
- Roseanne Farrant, Community member
- Stewart Taylor, Werai Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation
- Tracy Hamilton, Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre
Front Row (L-R): James Dyer, Hilary Johnson (CEWO), John Lolicato, Anthony Wilson, Maggie McDonald, Louise Blessington (CEWO).
Back Row (L-R): Katherine Reid (CEWO), David Crew, Roseanne Farrant, Roger Knight, Michael Pisasale, Robyn Watts, John Trethewie, Annabelle Plunkett (MIL), Jamie Hearne.