Join us on World Rivers Day for an unforgettable celebration of the Yarra, Birrarung — through ceremony, music, conversation and collective action.

Wave in a flowtilla of boats as they gather on the Birrarung by Queens Bridge. Enjoy the sweet river songs on the banks of the Birrarung with the Climate Choir. Be moved by a cultural performance and Welcome to Country by the Djirri Djirri dancers.

Move on up to the Edge theatre for a bold and challenging panel discussion: 'Our Yarra Birrarung: Who's caring for who?' hosted by Janet Bolitho (YRKA President) with Dr Mandy Nicholson (Wurundjeri woman), Brendan Condon (Founder, Australian Eco-systems) and Chris Chesterfield (Chair of the Birrarung Council).

Immerse yourself in the stunning images and words of Prayer for a River, a brilliant new book by Uncle Glenn Loughrey and ex-Riverkeeper Andrew Kelly.
Then join us for educational river activities, live music and a scrumptious afternoon tea where you'll connect with other river lovers to discover how you can give back to the river that sustains us all.

Our Event Partner for World Rivers Day Celebrations is Fed Square.

About Riverfest

This event is part of the 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

The Yarra Riverkeeper Association acknowledges that the lands and waterways of the Yarra, Birrarung catchment, are the unceded territories of the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung and Bunurong peoples. We pay respect to Traditional Owners, who have, and continue, to care for Country. We acknowledge that the river now called Yarra has always been known as the Birrarung by its custodians.

About Riverfest

Acknowledgement of Country

Our Partners: