Caring for water and country through National Water Week 2021

The Australian Water Association's (AWA) National Water Week, being held from 18th to 24th October, is, once again, setting out to inspire individuals, education providers, communities and organisations to work together to build community awareness and understanding of water-related issues.

The theme for this year's National Water Week is ‘Caring for water and Country’, inviting all Australians to think more deeply about their local environment and how First Nations peoples care for Country, and the role water plays in our local communities.

Explaining that National Water Week is a time to raise awareness and understanding of the vital significance of Water, AWA Chief Executive, Corinne Cheeseman stated "’Caring for Water and Country' recognises the importance water plays in our lives.

“It is an opportunity for Australians to reflect on how we can rebuild from our turbulent recent years of floods, drought and fires in the face of climate change and a pandemic."

AWA has engaged artist Dennis Golding from Spirit Creative, a majority Indigenous-owned business, to bring this year's theme to life.

Golding explains that the "inspiration behind the artwork comes from his strong connection to Country, from the freshwater and saltwater regions of northern and northwest NSW".

Commenting on the partnership, Cheeseman added "we're so proud to have partnered with Spirit Creative on this year's theme, 'Caring for Water and Country' allows us to rebuild a solid future - by learning more from traditional Custodians' cultural practices.”

To get involved in National Water Week individuals, schools, and organisations can share their stories and host events and use one of the following associated hashtags: #NWW2021 #Caring4waterandCountry #NWW2021WaterAmbassor #NationalWaterWeek2021

For information go to www.nationalwaterweek.org