A new voice for the Williams Valley!

While the debate goes on about which council should merge with which, what will happen to rates, will the roads get fixed, and how to attract more investment into Dungog Shire, the Williams River continues to flow from the Barrington Tops, through Dungog and Clarence Town, and on to the confluence with the Hunter River at Raymond Terrace. Few would disagree with the importance the Williams River plays in our region.

Sustaining the Williams Valley (SWV) is a new community group focused on one of our most taken for granted natural assets – the Williams River. This is an independent group of people with one aim – to work on behalf of the interests of the river and valley. We see the need for maintenance and encouragement of the natural cycle, to allow locals and visitors alike to enjoy the river, and for the natural life of the river, the animals, insects and plants, to thrive.

Working under the principles of sustainability and active community involvement, the group presents as an incorporated association, and will be seeking funding to support activities undertaken. A minimal membership charge allows members to be covered by insurance. Member input is not only encouraged, it is vital to the developing of new ideas and strategies to support the aims of the group and improve the environment in our valley. The group will seek to work with schools, with the community, with businesses, local government and government organisations, every stakeholder that has an interest in maintaining the valley.

Over the coming months the group plans to introduce activities that benefit the river and the community, repairing and restoring areas of river bank that have been damaged through natural and human events.

The first of these is to work on the river bank at Frank Robinson Park. The group aims to rehabilitate the area, clearing debris and introduced plants, planting trees native to the area and environment, and perhaps installing some new equipment.

Watch this space for further updates!