The Yarrowee Leigh Catchment Conversations

Whether you're an experienced WaterWatch volunteer, a former monitor, or simply curious about getting involved, join us for a day of learning, conversation, and exploration along the Yarrowee Leigh waterways. 

Together we'll spend time at the waterway, learn from different perspectives, share observations and stories of change, and explore how citizen science can help us better understand and care for local waterways.  

This workshop will introduce participants to the WaterWatch program and provide hands-on experience using water quality monitoring equipment, while also creating space to explore the broader story of the Yarrowee Leigh catchment. Together, we'll hear from local groups and organisations, share observations and knowledge, and discuss the questions and concerns people have about local waterways. 

🌿 Explore the Yarrowee Leigh waterways 

• Learn about the catchment and the waterways that connect Ballarat to Inverleigh 

• Hear about current projects and activities taking place across the catchment 

🔬 Try WaterWatch monitoring 

• Learn about key water quality parameters 

• Use WaterWatch equipment in the field 

• Understand what monitoring can tell us about waterway condition 

💬 Share knowledge and observations 

• Discuss changes you've noticed in local waterways 

• Explore community questions, concerns, and priorities 

• Learn from the experiences of others 

  
  

🗺️ Build a picture of the catchment together 

• Identify places people care about 

• Share stories, observations, and local knowledge 

• Help shape future monitoring activities in the Yarrowee Leigh 

This workshop is designed to: 

• Introduce new people to WaterWatch in an accessible way 

• Connect current and former volunteers 

• Build stronger connections across the catchment 

• Explore how monitoring can help answer questions about local waterways 

• Create opportunities for future monitoring groups and citizen science activities 

• Current and former WaterWatch volunteers

• Community members interested in local waterways

• Landholders

• Students and educators

• Environmental volunteers

• Members of local community groups

• Anyone curious about getting involved

• This is event is free but registration is required. Please secure your place (and lunch) by hitting the 'Register' button

• This event may require attendees to drive between locations.

• This event is likely to include walking on uneven ground. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

• If the weather becomes unfavourable or if Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings are declared, the event will be cancelled and participants will be notified as soon as possible.

What to bring:

Please bring your own snacks and water. Dress appropriately for the weather and be sun smart – wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. We recommend closed-toe shoes and long pants.