A watery toast launches river health conference

Kaddie Pass

1 December 2006: Canberra drinking water was given the thumbs up at the launch of the 2007 Murray-Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) International River Health Conference last week.

The water was used as a symbolic toast to mark the launch that was attended by government and community representatives.

From left: the University's Munique Webb, Andrew Mackenzie and Margi Bohm with conference convenor, Arron Wood Photo: Kaddie Pass

The University was a major sponsor of the conference, which aimed at fostering awareness of environmental issues in school children, using the Kids Teaching Kids model.

Riverhealth conference convenor, Arron Wood addressed the gathering, driving home the importance of involving kids in environmental issues.

"Young people are less than 20 percent of the population but 100 percent of our future," Mr Wood said.

He stressed that it was not just about students doing 'warm fuzzy' activities but about looking at environmental issues and affecting change.

With the theme for next year's conference focusing on oceans and rivers it was an apt time for the newly established eWater CRC, located at the University, which to come on board as an additional sponsor for the event.  

Students from Radford College, Narrabundah College, Fraser Primary and Emmaus Christian School gave environmentally themed performances that included rap songs, role plays, dance, and an interactive game that energised the audience while informing them on the merits of recycling.

MBDC chief executive, Wendy Craik, officially launched the conference, and spoke on the importance of supporting the conference.

"Water shortage is affecting people, communities and the environment. What's important is that the kids of today see the Murray Darling Basin of tomorrow. Ensuring you involve kids at a young age ensures you make it a success," Ms Craik said.

She added that activities such as the conference would encourage children when they grew up to think about pursuing careers in environmental studies.