The 2 catchments run through the steep valleys, slopes and tablelands bordering the Great Dividing Range, making up 6% of the Murray–Darling Basin. Together the Namoi and Gwydir rivers stretch for more than 1,000 kilometres, supporting irrigated agriculture, urban water supply, stock and domestic, mining and a number of other smaller industries across the regions.
Annabelle’s role as a REO allows her to connect with a wide array of stakeholders and community members – be it local irrigators, First Nations people, or representatives from the council or other government agencies.
“We certainly are a thriving and progressive community up here in the northern Basin, with economic diversification thanks to our many industries,” Annabelle said.
“I feel very privileged to be a REO, and to create a safe space for community members to share their thoughts, opinions, knowledge, and concerns around the operation and management of the Murray–Darling Basin.”
Future voices of the Basin
Recently Annabelle has been out in the catchments engaging with the small but mighty members of the community. This included the delivery of an engaging and educational session for more than 70 students of St Francis Xavier’s Primary School in Narrabri.
Together with a Local Engagement Officer (LEO) from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), Annabelle guided students through conversations around their feelings and thoughts associated with the Basin and its water.
“Spending time out in the community and educating younger generations about how water is shared and managed is a very important part of our role,” explained Annabelle.
Connecting as we move forward
As we work towards a number of key Basin Plan deadlines including the 2025 Basin Plan Evaluation and the 2026 Basin Plan Review, Annabelle will continue listening and encouraging conversations to ensure community members feel heard and supported.
These deadlines have been a big topic of conversation in the northern Basin, specifically around the Water Amendment (Restoring Our Rivers) Act 2023 (Cth), and water recovery methods.
Did you know?
The Namoi catchment is home to the Giant Pink Slug, a fluorescent pink creature that only exists on the slopes of an extinct volcano in Mount Kaputar National Park (near Narrabri).
This unique slug grows to approximately 20 cm long and 6 cm wide, and survives on the biofilm of lichen, fungi and micro-algae on the surface of eucalypt bark and rock faces.
We encourage people to talk to us about their experiences and concerns. We want everyone invested in the Basin to contact the Regional Engagement Team. Our Regional Engagement Officers have an impressive range of skills, experience and strong community ties. To provide feedback or keep up to date on this program, email engagement@mdba.gov.au.