Rains bring life to the Kimberley — and irrigation idiocy

Posted on March 5, 2020

Heavy rains have come to the Fitzroy Valley – replenishing the tributaries, floodplains and billabongs that are so important for wildlife and people along the river.

But with this great news comes the threat from big business and irrigators, who are jumping on the opportunity to call for extraction and storage rights to the precious water supplies.

We can’t let corporations dictate the future of the mighty Fitzroy. 

The immense benefits from floodwaters are shared with all when they flow throughout the vast Fitzroy catchment. None more so than the local Traditional Owners, who have cared for this country for thousands of years. As Dr Anne Poelina from the Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council said:

“We've seen what happens when you have dams on floodplains and tributaries, the Murray Darling is testimony to this, we want to make sure the Fitzroy and Margaret Rivers don't end up like that.”

We know that the survival of critically endangered sawfish is dependent on high river flows. Floods also trigger a boom in fish abundance including every fisher's dream target, the Barramundi. Floods are a natural part of the river cycle that must be protected.

With irrigators attempting to push the government to roll back their courageous 'No Dams' election commitment, now is the time to express your support for protecting our National Heritage-listed asset. 

Please take action to support the mighty Fitzroy remaining free-flowing and healthy


Floodplains on Wangkatjungka road near Fitzroy Crossing, following heavy rainfall from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Esther.
(Credit: The Elusive Toni)

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