I have just joined the Marrickville Cooks River Committee. I thought it would be a good experience, and a way of contributing back to the community. As I walk almost daily long the river, and my art work is inspired by the subject of the Inland River, for me it is a relevant way be involved in the community. The committee aims to improve the environment of the Cooks River and raise awareness amongst the community of its value as a natural system.

Last weekend I went to the Marrickville Council’s Rain Garden Planting Day. One of the largest rain gardens created so far along the Cooks River. Marrickville is a great council, very active on the environmental and arts front. The Planting day, part of the ‘Water Revolution’ initiative, was open to the whole community. There was a big turn out on the day, with everyone getting a chance to plant a tree! The Street Rain Gardens are one way the council is improving the quality of the Cooks River, removing pollutants and rubbish from storm water over flow.

The catchment area, with grass plantings for filtration, and a stoney river bed with gums.

View looking up to the neighbouring golf course, with new plantings in the foreground.