Collaboration as long as the Yarra river flows

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s new Platypus Partnership extends its commitment to regenerate a river that runs past the venue.

Together with the Yarra Riverkeeper Association, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is supporting the conservation of the Yarra/Birrarung river. Credit: Yarra Riverkeeper Association
Together with the Yarra Riverkeeper Association, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is supporting the conservation of the Yarra/Birrarung river. Credit: Yarra Riverkeeper Association

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has formed a partnership with the Yarra Riverkeeper Association (YRA), which will see the venue supporting the Yarra/Birrarung river that flows past.

 

The ‘Platypus Partnership’ will see MCEC and YRA working together to create stronger community connections and build a sustainable future for the Yarra/Birrarung. The partnership will also provide opportunities for MCEC employees to take part in learning and engagement with the Association.

 

Helen Fairclough, MOO of CEC said: “At MCEC we want to make a real impact on the community and our environment, so we’re excited to join the Yarra Riverkeepers on their journey to regenerate the Yarra. We want to support Traditional Owners conserving and sustaining its future. We’re pleased that this adds to MCEC’s growing range of community partnerships that help us support sustainability initiatives, children’s charities, and housing programs.”

 

The Yarra Riverkeeper Association is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation that works closely with local communities, government, traditional owners and other stakeholders to advocate for the health of the Yarra/Birrarung, re-energising the river ecologically and culturally, bringing back biodiversity and health.

 

MCEC already has existing partnerships spanning sustainability, health and housing, with organisations including OzHarvest, the Good Friday Appeal, children’s charity Variety, Launch Housing, Starlight Children’s Foundation and the Banksia Foundation.