Media Statements - Video hopes to raise awareness of fragile Swan

8/7/00

A new video is set to raise community awareness of what can be done to protect the Swan River.

Catchment groups throughout the metropolitan area have been sent free copies of the documentary, Spirit of the Swan, which examines the river’s place in Perth’s past, present and future.

The video was produced by the Swan River Trust and Channel Seven and was first screened in March.

Water Resources Minister Kim Hames said the video would be available to all schools and other interested groups through their local catchment group.

“One of the main challenges in improving the health of the Swan River is to educate present and future generations on how their actions can affect river health,” Dr Hames said.

“Market research done after February’s toxic algal bloom showed that metropolitan people understand the link between fertiliser and chemical use and nutrient levels entering the river system.

“We need to build on this awareness to ensure we all do our bit to help our city’s most valuable natural resource.”

Copies of Spirit of the Swan are available from the following groups:

Bannister Creek Catchment Group;
Bayswater Integrated Catchment Management Group;
Belmont/Victoria Park Catchment Group;
Bennett Brook Catchment Group;
Blackadder Woodbridge Catchment Group;
Canning Catchment Coordinating Group;
Chittering Land Conservation District Committee;
Claise Brook Catchment Group;
Ellen Brook Integrated Catchment Group;
Gingin Land Care District Committee;
Helena River Catchment Group;
Jane Brook Catchment Group;
North Swan Land Care District Committee;
Upper Canning/Southern Wungong Catchment Team;
Urban Hills Land Care District Committee; and -
the Wooroloo Brook Land Care District Committee.

Contact details for all these groups are available from the Swan Catchment Centre on 9220 5300.

Media contacts: Fran Hodge (Minister’s office) 9215 4800
Paula Wallace (Swan River Trust) 9278 0741