The UMCN was delighted to host the 2026 Working Together for the River Forum on 24 June in Queanbeyan, bringing together people from across the region to share knowledge, build connections and explore opportunities for caring for Country and the Upper Murrumbidgee catchment. The Forum built on the strong foundations established by previous events in 2022 and 2024, continuing a successful tradition of regional collaboration and knowledge sharing.

This year’s Forum was shaped by the recently released Walking Together for Country guide and provided an opportunity to hear from a diverse range of speakers, discuss major policy initiatives, share on-ground experiences and consider collaborative approaches to supporting resilient waterways, landscapes and communities.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Most survey respondents rated the event as either excellent or good, highlighting the value of both the presentations and the opportunity to engage with others working across natural resource management, land stewardship, conservation and community sectors.

Attendees also reported a high level of satisfaction with the quality of speakers and the presentation content, reflecting the strength and diversity of expertise shared throughout the day.

Importantly, participants contributed a wide range of suggestions and ideas for future forums. These insights will help shape upcoming UMCN events and ensure the Forum continues to evolve in response to the interests and needs of the region.

UMCN thanks the ACT & Region Catchment Management Coordination Group for their generous funding support and all speakers, participants, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the Forum. The enthusiastic attendance, rich discussions and positive feedback demonstrate the ongoing value of creating opportunities for people to come together, learn from one another and work collaboratively for the future of the Upper Murrumbidgee catchment.

Videos of all presentations will be available on UMCN’s YouTube channel.

We look forward to continuing these conversations and building on the momentum at future UMCN events.