In 2005, B4C, against all odds, won the National River Prize from the International Rivers Foundation. This achievement led to many opportunities, including our development as a successful charity and catchment committee. We were encouraged by the International Rivers Foundation to form a ‘Twinning’ relationship with a small, isolated catchment. We chose the Gregory River in Queensland’s Southern Gulf region.
The partnership began around 2006 when we met Landcare champion Mark Van Ryt from Mount Isa. With Mark as our local champion, we helped establish the Gregory River Landcare group, which has since evolved into Gulf Rivers Landcare, covering a much larger area, including Mount Isa.
In 2007, we hosted representatives from the European Rivers Network, bringing President Roberto and Michelle Epple all the way from the Loire River in France to Gregory Downs (see photos). This gave our partnership an international connection.
In the early years, B4C sent young people to work with schools in Gregory Downs, Burketown and Doomadgee. This program has since evolved into the Landcare Outback Adventure, with Mark hosting volunteers sponsored and sent by B4C.
In 2026, two groups travelled to the region, one in April/May and another in August. Volunteers travelled across the region, primarily treating invasive tropical weeds affecting waterways and riparian areas. The program gives young people working in the environmental sector an opportunity to experience a very different part of Queensland and learn how Landcare operates in isolated areas such as the Southern Gulf.
At the heart of this enduring partnership is local Landcare champion Mark Van Ryt, a dedicated conservationist, generous host and mentor. Over the years, many young people have taken part in these outback adventures, gaining valuable practical experience, knowledge and a deeper appreciation of the challenges of Landcare in remote Queensland.
The latest adventure took place in August 2026, and Gulf Rivers Landcare has recently completed follow-up weed control at the beautiful Lake Corella.
Support the Landcare Outback Adventure This Festive Season
B4C's Twinning Program is funded through the Bulimba Creek Environment Fund, helping us continue this longstanding partnership and provide opportunities for young people to experience Landcare in remote Queensland.
This festive season, please consider making a donation to support the program. We can provide a donation certificate that can be given as a Christmas gift, making it a meaningful way to support conservation and the next generation of Landcarers.
Donate here: https://www.givenow.com.au/bccccenvironmentfund