Celebrate the opening of Birrarung Riverfest 2026 and World Rivers Day with Yarra Riverkeeper Association beside the beautiful upper reaches of the Birrarung in Warburton.

Join us by the river behind Redwood Community Centre for an afternoon of connection, culture, storytelling and riverside celebration as we commence three inspiring weeks of events honouring the Birrarung from source to sea.

Program:

From 12pm: Arrival and set up your picnic

12.30pm: Welcome by Janet Bolitho, President, Yarra Riverkeeper Association

12.35pm: Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony and yarning/conversation with Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Dave Wandin.

Then relax and chat for the afternoon or...

Join the Birrarung Bathers, a local group of experienced river swimmers and learn about river safety.

Or join eco-inking artist, Annie Bolitho and get creative with nature-based art activities. Uncover the wonder of nature's colours by the river. Play play play! For children and adults alike.

Pack a picnic, bring your chairs or a picnic rug, and join us by the river with family, friends and fellow river lovers.

Note: There is a short walk to the picnic place, look out for the Riverfest banners. Parking and toilets are available at the Redwood Community Centre. Overflow parking is behind the Mitre 10 Hardware store a little walk away.

Join us after the picnic at River Rhythms with Sammy J

Bring the family along to the River Rhythms, singer/songwriter competition grand finale with Sammy J at Warburton Arts Centre.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Come celebrate the first day of Birrarung Riverfest 2026 and the extraordinary river that brings us all together.

Contact the host of Picnic on the Birrarung: Launch of Riverfest 2026