Farmers along the Hopkins in south-west Victoria are going to extraordinary lengths to improve the health of the river. To make a significant difference, they are establishing riparian zones on both its banks. People such as Jane O’Beirne, Brendan O’Brien, Chris Brain and Lois Reynolds are making tangible changes to the river’s landscape. Their efforts address negative impacts of ag run-off and drought. The Hopkins River snakes through rich farmland for over 300 kilometers, from just outside Ararat to Warrnambool. Unfortunately, it has been under siege from increasing amounts of pollution and degradation. From indigenous stewards to academic researchers, these farmers hope to restore the river’s health and protect its fate.
One of the most critical heroes in this movement is Jane O’Beirne, who has provided much-needed leadership by creating a 50-meter-wide riparian corridor on her property. This time, the space was previously desolate. Today, it is flourishing with their long-standing native trees and grasses producing an ideal environment for the area’s wilderness, such as the beloved koala. O’Beirne expresses her commitment to this restoration effort, stating, “As stewards of our land we should be caring for it.” Her strong personal bond with the river informs her view as a caretaker. She is passionate about protecting the natural world to bring nature back for a healthier future.
The Challenges of Restoration
The challenges of restoring the Hopkins River are complex and multi-layered. Chris Solum, a state environmental scientist specializing in waterways, describes in this short video how industrial agricultural practices have severely harmed the river’s health. He points out that nitrogen rates have jumped almost quadruple since the 90s. At the same time, phosphorus concentrations have increased two- to three-fold over the same timeframe. These changes exert a tremendous and unnecessary impact on aquatic species and consequently, on ways of life that depend on a healthy river habitat.
Brendan O’Brien looks back on what he has learned during the last twenty years. As a result, he has planted thousands of trees on the riverbanks to develop his own private paradise. He understands that these efforts have totally transformed the community. Yet a relentless triple blow by drought and ranching continue to hamper the reclamation efforts. Farmers may be tired after spending long days feeding and tending to their displaced livestock. O’Brien’s concern is that right now, restoration doesn’t seem to be on their radar.
We told the stories of Lois Reynolds and Chris Brain, both of whom have recently suffered serious defeats in their long-term campaigns. Originally, their goal had been to turn a solar salt pan into marshland that would feed the Hopkins River. They’ve been hampered by challenges like exploding kangaroo populations and flooding disasters that have knocked over young saplings. Despite these challenges, Reynolds remains optimistic: “So small plants are always coming up and regenerating. So that we don’t need to do the hard work of planting ourselves.”
A Community Approach to Conservation
Our renewed commitment to change the course of the Hopkins River is unique, but not a solitary pursuit. It should be an inspiring community drive to work together. Lois Reynolds stresses the importance of collective action, stating, “I think the river is struggling, it’s in danger, I think it will take a whole community approach.” This statement captures the developing consciousness of local farmers, who increasingly understand that shared responsibility to the environment is key for sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Radford sees opportunities, particularly when it comes to emerging markets. He thinks they might provide fiscal rewards for producers who participate in riparian reclamation projects. These kinds of efforts would help relieve some of the burdens caused by drought and allow farmers to farm in a more environmentally sustainable way while maintaining agricultural production.
O’Beirne couldn’t be happier with her role in this destructive movement. She enjoys her time along the river, where she often sees wildlife including platypuses. “My happiest place is being on the river and planting trees and being among nature,” she shares. Her journey illustrates the ecological potential and success of restoration. They speak to the soul-enriching experiences we gain when learning our connections with the nature around us.
The Future of the Hopkins River
The future of the Hopkins River depends on a sustained commitment to reestablish vegetation along its banks and improve its water quality. With all eyes on our nation’s environmental challenges, farmers such as O’Beirne, O’Brien, Reynolds and Brain are out in front. They prove that agriculture and conservation can work hand-in-hand. Their commitment—a true testament to what long-term, successful habitat restoration looks like—shows that with determination and creativity, restoration can work.
Chris Brain reflects on how far they have come but recognizes the need for ongoing vigilance: “I think the Hopkins River has suffered a lot. I think we’ve got to do more and we’ve got to learn more.” This call to action serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, further efforts are necessary to ensure the river’s health for generations to come.
