Event description

Join a special Birrarung Riverfest cruise for business, culture & tourism professionals as we explore the health, future, and opportunities of the Yarra.

Iconic images and experiences of the Birrarung / Yarra River are part of Melbourne's brand as a world-class liveable city. It's been a lifeblood for our First Peoples for millennia, and today, local business owners and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds continue to depend upon its wellbeing. As we look towards 2050, we're gathering inspiration from our deep local heritage and international cities like Paris (which has cleaned up the River Seine for urban swimming).

Morning Tea will be provided.

Let's explore what's next for Melbourne:

- How do we make sure that the Birrarung is at the top of our mind in decision-making?

- What are the innovative ways of working with a 'living entity'?

- And how can this collective work be supported in the practical day to day operations of river businesses, tourism and cultural institutions?

If you're part of Melbourne's river economy - from cafes, bars and restaurants to conference centres, sports stadiums and trademark events - join us as we flow into the future together!

Guest Speakers (tbc):

City of Melbourne
State Government of Victoria
Yarra River Business Association
Janet Bolitho, Chair, Yarra Riverkeeper Association

This event is a partnership between Regeneration Projects, Yarra Riverkeeper Association and Yarra River Cruises, supported by Yarra River Business Association.

Getting there:

Let's meet at Yarra River Cruises' Berth 2 Federation Wharf, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia.

What to bring?

BYO water bottle, snacks, pen & notebook, camera phone & dress for Melbourne’s ‘all seasons in one day’ weather!

Accessibility:

This is a river cruise with mobility access. Riverfest welcomes everyone—we’re committed to making our events accessible and inclusive for people of all abilities. If you have accessibility needs and require support to attend, please email hello@regenprojects.earth

For more info, contact:

hello@regenprojects.earth

Background:

Walk Talk Swim is an innovative Environmental Education program designed to empower the next generation of urban waterway stewards and swimmers. It’s proudly led by Regeneration Projects, an Actor in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, incubator of the international Swimmable Cities alliance and one of the key hubs in the local swimmable Birrarung movement. More info: www.walktalkswim.org

2025 Birrarung Riverfest - Celebrate our river at one of 60+ events hosted over three weeks from 6–28 September. Whether you enjoy riverside walks, cleanups, creative workshops or paddling adventures, there's something for everyone at Riverfest. Riverfest is presented by the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and our partners Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo collaboration and Melbourne Water. Check out the full Riverfest program here.

Acknowledgement of Country & Partnership with Nature

We acknowledge the Birrarung / Yarra River as a living entity upon which our business Regeneration Projects depends. We pay our respects to the living cultures of Wurundjeri Woiwurrung, Bunurong and Boonwurrung Peoples; their Elders past and present. Let's strive together to promote intercultural understanding, elevate Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and inspire all Melbournian's to become stewards for Country.