In early April, a strong wave of community-driven environmental action swept through Billabong Creek at Conargo, as YACTAC, in partnership with Yarkuwa and the Refreshing Rivers program, undertook a series of initiatives aimed at restoring waterway health. Yarkuwa’s Kolety-Werkul Rangers, along with Andrea Mitchell from YACTAC and Benjamin Vissenga from LLS, donned their waders and carried out instream plantings at Billabong Creek within the Conargo Travelling Stock Reserve Rolling out all Resources (ROAR) site and along the shore of the Conargo North swimming area.

Throughout the project, native vegetation including Lomandra and Carex species was planted, alongside a variety of aquatic plants such as rushes, sedges, and water ribbons. These aquatic species were carefully sourced from local wetlands, including the Deniliquin Lagoons and Moulamein Lake, ensuring the plants were well-suited to the region’s ecosystem.

The effort not only enhanced the ecological resilience of the creek but also brought together local knowledge and cultural expertise. The Kolety-Werkul Rangers shared insights into traditional land management practices, weaving cultural values into the restoration work. The project also provided valuable hands-on learning opportunities for the team.

Fingers are crossed for the plants to establish and thrive over the coming months as we work together towards a more vibrant Billabong Creek.

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