Nature Conservation Margaret River Region launches an exciting new initiative aimed at caring for the Margaret River, with a packed 12-month calendar of events to inspire and educate locals about the iconic waterway.

The Friends of Wooditjup Bilya (Margaret River) February program will feature a guided restoration paddle by conservationist and local river steward, Genevieve Hanran-Smith. Genevieve authored the Margaret River Action Plan in 2003, co-authored the Wooditjup Bilya Protection Strategy and has worked in conserving the Wooditjup Bilya for decades. Join her as she shares her passion for the river, the positive action undertaken in the lower reaches of the river (Caves Rd to rivermouth) and the significant changes she has observed in river condition over the past 20 years.

Joining Genevieve is naturalist and hooded plover volunteer, Andrew Green, who works with threatened shorebirds along the rivermouth during breeding season, and Sarah Palmateer, a river custodian and eco-tourism operator based at the river mouth. Hear their passion for the river and their vision towards celebrating and protecting this special place.

Starting at the river mouth we'll paddle up the Margaret River, taking in the breathtaking scenery and hearing the inspiring conservation stories of this special place. After the paddle, join us for the work! Friends of Wooditjup Bilya volunteers will have a unique opportunity to chance to get their hands dirty and be part of the restoration along the St.Alouarn foreshore.

Want to join us?

Registrations are essential, please ensure you secure a ticket. Meet at the Rivermouth carpark at 9:30, Thursday 8th February. Please note that children must be accompanied by a parent and must be over the age of 12. Tickets are free, and donations are most welcome. Every donation dollar goes back into restoring the Margaret River.

For more information contact: Lauren Scanlon, Friends of Wooditjup Bilya coordinator, at lauren.scanlon@natureconservation.org.au

Please note: Tickets are limited and there is a waiting list so please let us know if you can't make it!

This program is funded by the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River through the Environmental Management Fund. Huge thank you to Sarah and Josh Palmateer for kindly donating canoe hire for the event.