This year marks 20 years of GeoCatch working with community and partners to improve and protect the natural resources of the Geographe catchment.
On Tuesday, GeoCatch’s work over twenty years advocating for better management to ensure the health of the catchment and its waterways was recognised in a visit by Minister for Water, Dave Kelly.
Minister Kelly commemorated the occasion by visiting several sites where projects were being implemented to improve water quality in the Geographe catchment.
Minister Kelly’s visits were followed by celebratory event in Busselton in the evening to recognise GeoCatch’s 20 years in the catchment, where the Minister recognised GeoCatch’s achievements in managing the natural resources of the Geographe Bay catchment.
The sundowner event was attended by GeoCatch’s past and present board members, staff and long term supporting partners. Inaugural GeoCatch Chair Barry Oates spoke about the formation of GeoCatch in late July 1997 and early years of the group which evolved to secure a strong foundation for GeoCatch’s future.
While Deputy Chair David Kemp noted the importance of GeoCatch’s strong partnerships with government agencies, local government, industry and the community.
“20 years of working in this catchment has given us the experience to deliver major projects under Revitalising Geographe Waterways,” he said.
“I’m proud of GeoCatch’s role in bringing the community along on the journey in partnership with government, City of Busselton and Shire of Capel in delivering on ground projects across the Geographe Catchment.
“The skills of the board members with the diverse local knowledge have added value to catchment thinking.”
GeoCatch Board members reflected on some of GeoCatch’s achievements over 20 years.
GeoCatch Board members reflected on some of GeoCatch’s achievements over 20 years.
Member Julie Howes said she is proud of what the group has achieved.
“GeoCatch acknowledges that the science is important, but just as important is the knowledge and historical perspectives from community members, and bringing the two together is a better way to approach the health of our waterways.”
GeoCatch’s Chair, Will Hosken said that twenty years marks an exciting time for GeoCatch.
“Dedication, partnerships and being responsive to our community has brought about some great successes and achievements over the past twenty years,” he said.
GeoCatch launched a report celebrating 20 years in the catchment, which is available at https://geocatch.asn.au/resource/geocatch-20-years-in-the-catchment-report-to-community/