INTERNATIONAL RiverFoundation

International RiverFoundation Annual Report 2013/14

Reviving the world’s

SPREAD: Upper Drau, Austria Contents 04 06 08 About Us Chairman’s Riversympo- Report sium 10 14 17 Riverprize Twinning Knowledge 18 20 22 River World Rivers Global Recovery Day Reach 24 26 27 Partners Corporate Financial Governance Summary 30 ACFID Code of Conduct

SPREAD: Honghu Lake, China Our Vision About Us To become a truly global leader in supporting and fostering best practice river management and restoration, delivering The International RiverFoundation (IRF) is a not-for-profit organisation helping to revive the world’s rivers and the communities who depend on them. We do this through identifying, recognising, rewarding and applying superior economic, social and environmental returns. best practice river management and restoration world-wide.

The IRF was established in , in April 2003, by a group of individuals and organisations passionate about sustainably managing rivers to achieve improved health, ecological, economic, and social outcomes. The IRF’s current Foundation Partners are Brisbane City, Thiess Pty Ltd, Albrecht Foundation and the Government.

Our Foundation is best known for awarding the most prestigious global river management award – the Thiess International Riverprize. To date, 16 international prizes have been awarded to the most awe-inspiring examples of river and basin improvements across four continents. In addition to the global prize, 14 Australian Riverprizes have been awarded since 2001 and the second IRF European Riverprize was awarded in 2014.

In addition to prizes, IRF establishes twinning projects between the winners and regions in need across the globe. This emphasis on knowledge exchange is now being enhanced through the International Riversymposium which aspires to be a leading global conference focused solely on rivers. Our work in developing countries is augmented by sponsoring river professionals from these regions to attend the International Riversymposium and through awarding the Ken Thiess Memorial Scholarship to applicants in developing countries. Our Goals

• To identify, recognise and reward the exceptional efforts of organisations in river management and restoration.

• To catalyse the replication of best practice river management practices in regions of need, promoting long- term relationships for sharing knowledge.

• To raise awareness of environmental, economic, social and cultural river values and the importance of integrated river basin management.

• To provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, experiences and knowledge on sustainable river management.

• To support the corporate social responsibility of companies by facilitating actions and projects in sustainable river basin management.

• To promote co-operative, long-term relationships on river management between developing and developed countries.

• To help maximise the effectiveness of global action to protect and revive rivers by building partnerships and alliances with organisations seeking similar outcomes worldwide.

• To provide tangible and measurable economic, social and environmental outcomes on behalf of our sponsors.

04 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 05 Chair’s Report CEO’s Report

As the newly appointed IRF Chairman, I have pleasure in reflecting on the organisation’s performance over the past year with the fresh It has indeed been an exceptional year for the IRF. In taking on the International Riversymposium, we doubled our workload overnight eyes of an outsider. To me the Foundation performs a vital function in the array of global water organisations, in celebrating the best of and delivered an inspiring event with fewer staff than the previous year. Coinciding with the symposium we were pleased to release the best in river management and restoration. Whilst well known for awarding Riverprizes to deserving groups, IRF goes well beyond River Journeys 3, a delightful coffee table publication charting the evolution of our river prizes and twinning projects over 14 years and this role to transfer best practice into regions and localities around the world much in need of this expertise. And we have taken one across 35 countries, and demonstrating unimaginable benefits to winners and their twinning partners. further step forward in exchanging global knowledge and experience through delivering the International Riversymposium, where industry, scientists, communities and policy makers get together to inform and debate issues of the day. The launches of the first ever North American Riverprize, to be awarded in May 2015, and the New Zealand Riverprize, to be awarded at the Riversymposium in September 2015, highlight the popularity and importance of this recognition. We have also made substantial The governance of IRF continues to evolve, and I welcome Dr Deborah Nias and Dr Selina Ward as new IRF directors. Deborah is well strides in supporting the next generation of river professionals through the Emerging River Professional Award (sponsored by known to river managers as the Chair of the Australian Riverprize Judging Panel, a long time IRF ambassador, and CEO of the Murray OceanaGold and managed by IWC Alumni Network), by engaging 60 students in the Riversymposium, and encouraging Darling Wetlands Working Group Ltd. Selina is also well recognised as the former Program Coordinator for the International cross-generational dialogue through high school participation. Riversymposium for many years and a teacher and researcher at The University of Queensland. Both directors will bring passion and skills to guide the future of the organisation. I am also delighted to see the enduring commitment embodied in our diverse and highly Our River Recovery program has seen substantial benefits achieved in the Bremer River, with real on-ground action showing positive credentialed ongoing directors – Martin Albrecht, Michael Wright, Prof Bill Dennison, Peter Rowley and Philip Weller. ecosystem responses. Our project in the Philippines with OceanaGold has been taken to a new level, with a three year program supporting the holistic approach to river quality through active involvement from local communities and stakeholders. This year we are The past year was the first of our 2013-17 Business Plan. One of the early successes was the revitalisation of the Riversymposium pleased to be supporting two new Ken Thiess Memorial scholars to participate in the Master of Integrated Water Management with which was held in Canberra on the 15-18 September with the theme of ‘Large River Basins’. Our team worked hard with our partners co-funding from the Global Water Partnership and the International WaterCentre. to organise an outstanding program with no less than 21 keynote speakers and 10 special sessions, complemented by three absorbing plenary case studies of large rivers around the world. The event was wonderfully enhanced with art, film, literature and cultural Over the year we have put considerable effort into rebuilding our Sponsored Delegates program – an important initiative to assist river activities. The Riverprize Gala Dinner was a highlight of the social program. We look forward to an equally exciting professionals normally unable to access world leading knowledge at the International Riversymposium. In this regard we are delighted Riversymposium in Brisbane in September 2015. to have formed new relationships with the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research who have supported students, project managers and international leading thinkers to engage in An area of rapid growth has been the Riverprize program. IRF now supports six prizes annually, with the Thiess International, Australian the symposium. and European Riverprizes being complemented by the North American and New Zealand Riverprizes, both to be awarded for the first time in 2015. Additionally, the Emerging River Professional Award was awarded for the first time in 2014. Our ambition to build a We have enjoyed unprecedented success in our two major events this year. Most recent was the awarding of the European Riverprize regional river prize framework covering all inhabited continents is now well underway, with each regional winner qualifying as a at the spectacular Vienna City Hall during the European River Restoration Conference in Vienna in late October. Our thanks go to the contender for the Thiess International Riverprize the following year. European Centre for River Restoration, the City of Vienna, the International Association of Water Utilities of the Danube River Catch- ment and Coca-Cola Europe for making this such a magnificent event. The International Riversymposium was attended by nearly 500 2014 has also seen the revival of our Sponsored Delegates programs – providing life-changing opportunity for river professionals delegates, with 25% coming from 30 overseas countries. The Gala Dinner was a wonderful celebration, with exceptional prize winners from disadvantaged regions and sectors to participate in the Riversymposium. The 2014 Riversymposium also included an engaging – congratulations go to the River Rhine for taking out the Thiess International Riverprize, and for the Australian River- session on the indigenous management of waterways. These initiatives have been combined with a new focus to engage the next prize. A highlight for many was the three finalists for the Emerging River Professional Award, all international, with Dr Nelson Odume generation through both secondary and tertiary student participation. taking home the trophy.

None of the Foundation’s work would happen without the support of our sponsors, partners and wider network of stakeholders. In The achievements of the first year of our Business Plan would not have been possible without the dedication and skill of our small this regard I would like to make special mention of our philanthropic support from the late Mrs Vera Thiess, Mr and Mrs Alec and Mary team, the unrelenting support of our ambassadors, the professional guidance of our directors and the support of our Global Network Peden, Mr Martin Albrecht and the Albrecht Foundation, and the Morgan Foundation. I also acknowledge the substantial financial sup- to Advance Integrated River Basin Management. Looking forward we see the importance of consolidating our gains, ensuring financial port received from Brisbane City Council, Thiess Pty Ltd, OceanaGold Corporation and Coca-Cola Europe, sponsor of the sustainability, seeking continuous improvement in all our activities, challenging ourselves with new initiatives and ensuring substantive European Riverprize. Noteworthy amongst our sponsored delegates supporters are the Australian Government, the Australian Centre outcomes for our sponsors and partners. for International Agricultural Research and the Albrecht Foundation. There are many more to thank, including the Murray-Darling Basin Authority as Riversymposium 2014 principal sponsor, BMT WBM for recent provision of IRF office space, and the exceptional quality and exhaustive pro bono work of PricewaterhouseCoopers and Allens Linklater.

Despite a challenging funding environment for not-for-profits, our clear vision, passion and innovation will, I believe, drive the Foundation to achieve further sustainable outcomes for rivers, their catchments and the communities and industries that depend on them.

Dr Nicholas Schofield Dr. Roger Higgins Chief Executive Officer Chair

06 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 07 IMAGE: Riversymposium, 2014 17th International IMAGE: The Ngunnawal people perform a Welcome to Country for Riversymposium delegates Riversymposium

The 17th International Riversymposium, ‘Large River Basins’, was held in the famous Murray-Darling Basin for the first time, located in Canberra - Australia’s capital city. In our first year of managing the Riversymposium, we worked hard to revitalise all aspects of the conference, ensuring that it was accessible and attractive to a wide audience and reinforced the values of excellence, collaboration and integration in river basin management.

Strong sponsorship support was received for the event, with the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Thiess Pty Ltd and Brisbane City Council all contributing significantly both financially and administratively and being actively involved in conference proceedings. Additional support was provided by our partners in the Global Network to Advance Integrated River Basin Management.

A comprehensive and well-rounded program was developed, incorporating diverse, engaging keynote speakers, daily case studies on some of the world’s most famous large basins, a selection of social events and closer ties to art and culture. New additions to the conference included a more interactive ‘RiverExpo’, additional speaking opportunities for those with high-quality posters, and a professional day following the conference which resulted in a statement on the way forward for integrated river basin management worldwide.

11 09 Riverprize Riverprize is the world’s most prestigious environmental award, giving recognition, reward and support to those who have developed and implemented outstanding, visionary and sustainable programs in river management. The first Riverprize was awarded in 1999 and 30 Riverprizes have since been awarded to a range of organisations, big and small, from different parts of the world. Our 2014 Riverprizes were awarded to the River Rhine (Europe), the River Mur (Austria) and the Lake Eyre Basin (NT, QLD, NSW & SA - Australia).

Thiess International Riverprize Winner

The River Rhine (All countries in catchment) International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine

The International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine (ICPR) received the award for bringing Europe’s River Rhine back to life following a devastating chemical accident in 1986. Prior to the accident, industrialisation and burgeoning populations had already caused major degradation to the river and as early as the 1960s, the Rhine, which flows through six countries, was notoriously known as the “sewer of Europe”.

In 1986, a horrendous blaze at the Sandoz agrochemical storehouse in Basel caused tonnes of pollutants to be spilled into the River Rhine. This great river system of Europe was turned blood red and all biological life wiped out for 400km downsteam. This disaster provided the impetus for the International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine (ICPR) to accelerate actions already being undertaken in managing the river.

Bringing the Rhine back to life was not achieved overnight. For the best part of a century people have worked together at the Commission to deliver river restoration, transboundary river management and cooperation. As a result of investments by the states, municipalities and industry, more than 96 % of the 58 million inhabitants of the Rhine catchment are today connected to urban wastewater treatment plants and many industrial sites similarly dispose of their wastes. As a result, water quality has improved considerably and oxygen levels are back to normal. Chemical status of most groundwater bodies is good and inventories show that fish species composition in the Rhine is almost complete. However, more needs to be done to restore sustainable populations of migratory fish species like salmon and eel. Due to the relocation of dikes and the deepening of river forelands in the Rhine delta, 55 km² of former along the Rhine have been regained. Reconnecting plains has proved a ‘win-win’ for river health and flood mitigation.

We are most pleased to have been awarded the Thiess International Riverprize in the name of all those cooperating in the ICPR. This prize is an incentive to start working on future challenges, such as the effects “ of climate change, micro-pollutants and the further improvement of fish migration in the Rhine catchment. – Mr ”Gustaaf Borchardt, President, ICPR The Rhine is an inspirational example of a creative solution for river resto- ration. The ICPR is a group of committed and passionate individuals who have transformed the ‘Sewer of Europe’ into a river with high water quality, “ migratory fish and restored floodplains.

– Professor Bill Dennison, Chair, International Riverprize Judging Panel

IMAGE: Lake Eyre Basin, QLD, Australia 10 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 ” 11 IMAGE: The River Mur, Austria IMAGE: Lake Eyre Basin, QLD, NT, NSW & SA, Australia

European Riverprize Winner Australian Riverprize Winner The River Mur (Austria) Lake Eyre Basin (QLD, NT, NSW & SA) Freiland Environmental Consulting Civil Engineers and Office of the Styrian Lake Eyre Basin Partnership Government – Department 14 Water Management, Resources & The Lake Eyre Basin was awarded the Australian Riverprize for successfully implementing two decades of river protection through extensive engagement, collaboration and action. Sustainability Through systematic river regulation and development beginning at the end of the 19th century, the River Mur has been significantly The Lake Eyre Basin is one of the last naturally free-flowing river basins in the world, occupying a large part of semi-arid Australia altered. River loops, branches and forests were separated and the construction of hydro-power led to a loss of habitat for including parts of three states and one territory. It supports diverse human communities and outstanding cultural and natural values. many species. In the mid-1990s, the threat of water resource development galvanised communities and governments to protect these magnificent riv- In spite of these man-made changes to the river, the Upper Mur is considered to be one of the most ecologically valuable rivers of ers, flowing freely over hundreds of kilometres to the iconic Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre. Community concern catalysed the Lake Eyre Basin Austria. A natural spawning ground for the Danube salmon, the cross-border part of the River Mur also has the second largest alluvial Intergovernmental Agreement, focusing state, territory and federal governments on the overarching goal of cross-border protection of forest in Austria and comprises one of Europe´s most species-rich habitats. In restoring the River, the main focus has been on the river flows and catchments. restoration of old structures and the recovery of natural river habitats by increasing connectivity with the dynamic river system. This produced a transforming governance framework which united communities, governments and other players. It was realised Added benefits from these restoration activities include increased flood protection outcomes and the creation of leisure and nature through creation of an intergovernmental Ministerial Forum, its supportive agencies, the multi-stakeholder Community Advisory facilities for the communities along the river. A regulation zone that excludes power plants is also being implemented, ensuring the Committee and the multi-disciplinary Scientific Advisory Panel. Together with community driven catchment management groups and sustainable management of the River Mur well in to the future. regional natural resource management bodies, this enduring partnership has built a shared vision and identity for Australia’s unique, natural, desert river system: healthy environments, sustainable industries, vibrant communities and adaptive cultures.

Key achievements include sustained, constructive community engagement in a cooperative framework; collaboration for research and management focusing on values, monitoring and adaptive management; and communications to connect communities over a large part of the continent. This two-decade partnership kept LEB rivers healthy, compared with arid zone rivers globally.

Winning the Riverprize is a great achievement for the team, and an “The Lake Eyre Basin Partnership demonstrates the importance of commitment to rivers as well as persistence. For people to have a affirmation for river restoration work on the River Mur in recent years. We passion and be able to sustain that for 20 years is a remarkable thing.” – Kate Andrews, Lake Eyre Basin Partnership

hope that the Riverprize will serve as a contribution to improve public “The Lake Eyre Basin is a tremendous example of recognising the vital need to protect the few remaining untouched river basins awareness of our river. around the world. The Lake Eyre Basin provides us with evidence that we can manage our Basins in a way that protects their future “ and gives hope to those who depend on them for their livelihoods and spiritual connections ” - Dr Deborah Nias, Chair, Australian Riverprize Judging Panel.

12 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 ” 13 Twinning

In 2014 the IRF Twinning program has continued to expand and evolve, with every knowledge exchange relationship continuing to demonstrate the value of these programs. There is simply no better way to share knowledge than by connecting river basin profes- sionals with their peers around the world. The unique knowledge that is shared in these programs cannot be found in textbooks or fact sheets - it is in fact tacit knowledge garnered from decades of working in river restoration and management; the years of trial and error, River Rhine, Multilateral Knowledge Exchange challenges and triumphs that create success in sustainable river basin management. Practical experience is paramount, as is convic- tion and at least one ‘champion’ - a dedicated individual who wishes to contribute beyond their normal, everyday activities and who In 2013, the River Rhine won the inaugural European Riverprize for remarkable achievements in river restoation. The Global Environ- seeks to make a real difference. ment Facility’s International Waters (GEF IW: Learn) program has provided generous support for the Rhine to embark on a knowledge exchange process. IRF Twinning programs help to harness this knowledge and passion, often for the good of those in the developing world. 2014 saw the start of two new Twinning endeavours; the – Bremer River Twinning in , Australia, and the River Drawing from past experiences in Twinning and knowledge programs, the International Commission for the Rhine (ICPR) is imple- Rhine multilateral knowledge exchange program in Europe. These new learning exchanges differ vastly in scale and scope yet remain menting multilateral knowledge exchange forums. The program is designed to interact with many river basin organisations through a similar in intent – they both encompass passionate people coming together to share their experiences with others. Both rivers and coordinated and centralised approach, with a focus on integrated GEF IW: Learn project partners. In 2014, the first of these multilateral communities reap meaningful and endless benefits from these programs. Feedback from IRF networks indicates a desire to see the knowledge exchange workshops was hosted in Geneva, Switzerland, in conjunction with a United Nations Economic Commission for knowledge harnessed in these Twinning programs captured and shared more broadly. The International Riversymposium provides a Europe (UNECE) workshop. Delegates from both the UNECE and GEF IW: Learn projects were able to attend a two hour session of unique platform to share this information with a wider audience. presentations, discussion and debate with the ICPR. The framework of the 1992 Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (the UNECE Water Convention) was used as the main exchange platform and the ICPR shared their experiences in transboundary river basin management. Actual river management and restoration case studies are in high demand with regard to this topic, making the ICPR’s learnings invaluable. The core focus areas include:

Oxley Creek – Bremer River, South East Queensland, Australia • Transboundary river basin governance and institutions • Flood protection and flood risk management Oxley Creek Catchment Association (OCCA) was the winner of the Australian Riverprize in 2009. The prize provided recognition for 13 • Climate change preparedness years of successful partnerships with the community, resulting in increased engagement with their precious waterways and the life they • Species recovery and water quality restoration support. • Stakeholder engagement • Frameworks, governance and planning The CreekWATCH program contributed to OCCA’s recognition as a leader in catchment management through strengthening OCCA’s relationships with industry and increasing their commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural resource values of the catchment. The initial workshop was successful and was generously supported by UNECE. Planning has already commenced for a potential second workshop in 2015 also in line with UNECE and GEF IW: Learn programs. Complementing their work at this high level, the ICPR The Twinning partnership with Ipswich City Council (ICC) will enable OCCA to share their experiences to benefit the Bremer River is also designing an education and knowledge website for school aged children to become engaged in the history, restoration and catchment, with a focus on reproducing the highly successful CreekWATCH program. These two waterways have numerous issues in management of the River Rhine. common, including: In 2014 the River Rhine was also awarded the Thiess International Riverprize and is the first river to win both a regional and internation- • pressures from urban and industrialised areas al Riverprize. • persistent poor water quality • flooding and disaster risk planning • populations who are no longer connected to their rivers and creeks

Launched in July 2014, this Twinning program will include workshops and private sector engagement and seek sustainable, long term outcomes to address the issues in the Bremer River.

IMAGE: River Rhine, Germany

IMAGE: The Oxley-Bremer Twinning launch on the banks of the Bremer River

IMAGE: River Rhine, Germany

14 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 River Recovery 15 Emerging River River Professional Award Knowledge

The Emerging River Professional Award (ERPA) is a new initiative of the IRF. Established to recognise and foster those in the early 2014 saw the expansion and development of several IRF River Knowledge stages of their careers in rivers, the award is open annually to all river professionals who have been working in their field for ten years programs. This expansion reflects the IRF vision to lead innovation and champion or less and have demonstrated exceptional and measurable achievements in rivers, basins or river-dependent communities. In 2014, integrated river basin knowledge programs around the world. Knowledge and the ERPA was sponsored by OceanaGold Corporation and administered by the International WaterCentre Alumni Network. learning underpins progress, relationships, sustainability and helps to focus restoration and attention on the many great rivers around the world, big or small. The 2014 ERPA was awarded to Dr. Oghenekaro “Nelson” Odume of South Africa. Nelson has undertaken comprehensive research on freshwater systems and turned this research into new tools and approaches to help people better manage these important natural resources. Born and educated in Nigeria, Nelson’s study took him to South Africa where his PhD research explored the effects of industrial-sewage effluent on river health. The results of the study provided a new early warning system to improve effluent Global Network to Advance IRBM management in relation to river health, ecological structure and function. His passion for freshwater resources and his fervour for developing new research and management methods compounded in the creation of his latest project where ethics, value systems and 2014 marked the anniversary of the formation of the Global Network to Advance human dignity are at the forefront of understanding human behaviour and its impacts on freshwater management. He has a clear view Integrated River Basin Management. This network, of which IRF is a partner, on how to develop research with meaningful results. connects the major global organisations working in river basin management. Those in the Global Network share a common goal - to build on each other’s Nelson and the two other finalists, Alberto Rodriguez and Dymphina Andima, all presented their work at the International work in knowledge exchange, capacity development and learning, and maximise Riversymposium in Canberra. the outcomes.

Sponsored Delegates

Each year the IRF coordinates Sponsored Delegate programs to bring river pro- fessionals from various disciplines to the International Riversymposium. This year IMAGE: ERPA winner, Dr Nelson Odume and OceanaGold Chief Operation Officer, Mr Michael Holmes. our Sponsored Delegate program received support from three partners this year – the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and the Albrecht Founda- tion. These partners supported a total of 46 delegates, including professionals and post-graduate students from around the world, to experience the Riversym- posium. This program fosters knowledge exchange, excellence in learning and sharing of innovative approaches, as well as offering essential networking and exchange opportunities. “I congratulate IRF for leading such innovative advocacy on keeping our river ecosystem always healthy for the survival of humanities and in reminding us of the need to take care of our planet. The symposium will keep us moving to find ways even in our most smallest initiatives to maintain an abun- dant and clean water”. (Engr. Edgardo Sebado, Philippines).

Scholarships

Not just about rewarding academic excellence, the Ken Thiess Memorial Scholarship also seeks to nurture and develop future leaders in integrated water resources management. Through the generosity of the Thiess Family, the IRF was pleased to award the Ken Thiess Memorial Scholarship to Ms Bounthavivanh (Vanh) Mixap. From Laos, Vanh has worked across a range of international agencies focussing on water, gender, development, community and capacity development. Vanh is the sixth Ken Thiess scholar and this year she attended the 17th International Riversymposium with fellow scholar, Faisal Elias, where she was able to further develop her presentation skills.

With a stronger knowledge and experiences comes confidence. This is what I need to achieve for my voice to be heard and respected in the male dominant sector like “ water resources, particularly in Southeast Asia. – Vanh Mixap – Ken Thiess Memorial Scholar 18 IRF Annual Report 2012/13 17 16 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 ” IMAGE: Banaue, Phlippines

River Recovery

IRF River Recovery programs provide the opportunity for collaboration across a range of sectors to achieve on-ground outcomes for our precious rivers and ecosystems. This program seeks to demonstrate that collaboration for integrated river basin management is possible. A growing trend in all sectors is corporate or private sector stakeholders seeking meaningful engagement in social and environmental activities and outcomes. River Recovery programs work with all stakeholders, including those in the private sector, to achieve these tangible outcomes. IRF facilitates a collaborative process, assists with funding, planning, project management and communications. River Recovery is about overcoming conflict and seeking synergy for all stakeholders. In 2014, IRF’s two ongoing River Recovery programs are taking place in the Bremer River catchment in Queensland, Australia, and in the nothern Philippines.

Bremer River, North Philippines, Queensland South East Asia

The Bremer River Fund (BRF) is a collaborative body whose Over the last two years we have been working in part- guiding mission is to improve the health of the Bremer nership with OceanaGold in the Philippines to fund and River and surrounding waterways, as well as to give back promote integrated river basin management in the Addalam the natural amenity of the river to the local communities. River Basin. From the end of 2013 an in-country ambassa- IRF is one of several partners in this program. Over the last dor has been engaging with stakeholders across a range year the BRF has delivered a variety of programs that have of sectors, including research , government, community included: and NGOs, to determine the needs within the basin and the local peoples’ vision for their rivers and lives. - Education programs for local schools in the region, inte- grating science, decision making, leadership and planning. OceanaGold has since agreed to fund a program of Several of the students attended the International River- activities designed with the input of all stakeholders in the symposium to present their work to a global audience. region. This river recovery program partnership aims to: - Riparian revegetation activities designed to improve the health of local and increase connectivity for spe- - Create the first Watershed Management Council for the cies in the region. region - Coordinated volunteer engagement in environmental pro- - Initiate livelihood programs for communities grams with local schools, corporates such as Thiess and - Introduce water quality monitoring volunteers from the community. - Implement education and knowledge exchange and a - Reduction of land-based litter entering the waterways. possible Twinning program within the Philippines.

An initial 2010 investment of $100,000 has evolved into OceanaGold has partnered in this process as a stakeholder over half a million dollars worth of funds, a significant who wishes to realise a sustainable future for all people in portion if which was gained through the Queensland the region, particularly in relation to the health of the com- Government’s Everyone’s Environment grants. munity and local rivers.

18 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 19 19 IMAGE: Thiess Staff Volunteer for River Recovery

World Rivers Day

World Rivers Day was held on Sunday 29 September, with events taking place all over the globe. Here in Australia, some of IRF’s corporate partners held or participated in World Rivers Day events, demonstrating their commitment to sustainably managing our freshwater resources.

Thiess Staff Volunteer for River Recovery

As part of their company culture of contributing at the global level and also locally, Thiess workers chose to join IRF in contributing to the Bremer River Fund’s river recovery project by using their volunteer day to plant trees, clear weeds and debris from Bremer and work alongside Ipswich locals to restore this important section of waterway and provide habitat for wildlife.

Dozens of Thiess workers and volunteers were in Tite Family Park in North Boova, where Thiess machinery was also put to work removing debris deposited in the creek by recent .

Keeping Jacob’s Creek Flowing

Members of the local Barossa community joined employees of Pernod Ricard Winemakers to celebrate World Rivers Day on Sunday 28th September with a large-scale working bee at the home of Jacob’s Creek in the Barossa Valley, South Australia. Despite the blustery weather conditions, more than 60 people armed themselves with gardening tools to help plant more than 500 native shrubs and trees along the banks of the creek.

Volunteers also learnt more about the work Pernod Ricard Winemakers has carried out over the last 15 years to regenerate and improve the biodiversity of Jacob’s Creek through storyboards and an eco and history tour. Extensive clearing of non-native plants such as ash and olive trees which clog up the creek and affect water quality, widespread revegetation and the development of native vegetation corridors are key initiatives which have been actioned to ensure the long-term health of the waterway and secure the survival of some of the most fragile native animals and plants at Jacob’s Creek.

20 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 21 IRF Global Outreach Our Global Network

DanubeDanube River River River Rhine EUROPE 2007200 7 ALL COUNTRIES IN CATCHMENT 2014 (European Riverprize Winner 2013)

River Mersey RUSSIA ENGLAND 1999 RUSSIA

River Thames ENGLAND 2010 Dr Alastair Driver England

BELBELARARUUS Drôme River SLOVAK FRANCE 2005 REPUBLIC Sakhalin Island Philip Weller UKRAINKRAINE RUSSIA Austria KAZAKHSTAN Loire River HUNGARY ROMANIA MONGOLIA Nicole Portley IRF Europe Loire River USA FRANCE HUNGARY ROMANIA UTRECHT, THE NETHERLANDS FRANCE Lake Simcoe Johnny Sundstrom CANADA 2009 UZBEKISTAN Willamette River USA KYRYRGYZSTAN ARMENIA USA 2012 River Mur TTUURKEY AUSTRIA 2014 Sha River Siuslaw Basin Amos Brandeis Ganges River CHINA 2006 USA 2004 Grand River Israel CANADA 2000 INDIA Charles River IRAN USA 2011 PAKISTAN NEPAL TjangolTjangol Ma Mangolngol EGYYPPT PAKISTAN MEXICO SENEGAL MEXICO IINDINDIA BANGLADESH Dr Shrikant D. Limaye Ayuquila River Jarabacoa Rivers India MEXICO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC NIGER Mekong River Lake Bam SOUTH-EAST ASIA 2002 HHONDURAONDURAS BURKINA FASO St.St. JJohnsohns R Riveriver TTrangrang R iRiverver PHILIPPINES NIGERIA USA 2008 USA 2008 NIGERIA THAILAND QUEENSLAND 2012 COSTA RICA Ghana THAILAND SRI LANKA MALAYSIA Sunshine Coast CAMEROON NairobiNairobi R iRiverver COLOMBIUMBIA CAMEROON KENYA QUEENSLAND 2011 UGAGANNDA KENYA ECUADOR CONGO Oxley Creek ECUADOR Olita C. Ogonjo Kenya QUEENSLAND 2009 MALAWI TANZANIA INDONESIA Gregory River BRAZIBRAZIL AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND 2005 UNITED REPUBLIC Alexander River Gregory River OFM TAALNZAAWI NIA AUSTRALIA IRF Australia ISRAEL 2003 BRISBANE SAMOA ZIMBZIMBAABWE SAMOA

Dr Vikki Uhlmann Brisbane, Australia Orange River AUSTRALIA Wallis Lake SOUTHERN AFRICA SWAZILSWANADZILAND Bremer MikeRiver Rayner NEW SOUTH WALES 2004 AUSTRALIA Tweed, Australia SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA Mara River Dr Deborah Nias Tweed River KENYA 2013 NSW Australia AUSTRALIA Hunter River San Roque Watershed Tweed River NEW SOUTH WALES 2003 ARGENTINA San Roque Watershed AUSTRALIA ARGENTINA

Merri River Teresa Moncarz AUSTRALIAT Blackwood River Lake Macquarie Argentina AUSTRALIA 2001 NEW SOUTH WALES 2008

Glenelg River VICTORIA 2013 Murray Wetlands Torbay Catchment NEW SOUTH WALES 2007 WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2006 Merri Creek Goulburn Broken AMBASSADORS LEGEND Lake Eyre Basin VICTORIA 2002 VICTORIA 2001 QLD, NT, NSW & SA 2014 Philip Weller Austria IRF office Alastair Driver England Derwent Estuary D’entrecasteaux Channel IRF sponsored delegates to TASMANIA 2010 AUSTRALIA Olita C. Ogonjo Kenya the International Riversymposium Abdula Bansuan Philippines Thiess International Riverprize winner

Johnny Sundstrom USA Australian Riverprize winner Amos Brandeis Israel European Riverprize winner

Shrikant D. Limaye India Twinning Project

Deborah Nias Adelaide, Australia Twinning Partner River Recovery project

22 IRF Annual Report 2012/13 23 Partners

As a founding member of the IRF, and The IRF is supported by the Queensland State Government. We thank the host city of two Australian Riverprize Queensland State Government as a founding IRF member and for the core funding winners. We thank Brisbane City of IRF activities, including flood recovery and community project investment. Council for their renewed support for the IRF and for their leadership, continued stewardship of rivers and water quality in Brisbane.

The Albrecht Foundation

The IRF sincerely thanks the Albrecht Our long-standing partnership with Thiess was extended during the period with a Foundation for the continued support of widened scope of partnership projects and staff engagement opportunities. We our core programs and for the long thank the executives and staff at Thiess who have shown marvellous support for the standing commitment to the IRF. IRF and we look forward to a successful partnership over the next three years.

THIESS FAMILY TRUST Global Network to Advance Integrated River Basin Managemement

KALBITA PTY LIMITED

24 IRF Annual Report 2012/13 25 Governance Financial Summary For financial year 2013-14

During the 2013-2014 financial year we undertook a range of successful actions to secure funding to support our business plan. Our income comprised $677,044 in sponsorships, $299,804 in donations, $178,091 in government assistance and grants, $33,115 in in- terest and $26,225 in other sources. Our expenses were made up of $447,616 on river prizes, $97,565 on twinning projects, $215,702 Changes to the Board of Directors on river knowledge activities, $58,198 on river recovery projects, $621,662 on corporate support costs and $1,553 on miscellaneous Board of Directors expenses. Over the year we had a net decrease in equity of $208,017, leaving our equity position as $185,130. The International RiverFoundation Board of Directors 2013-current as at 24 December 2014: The following people resigned from the International RiverFoundation Board of Directors: Mr Kieren Perkins 18/12/14 Income Statement for the year ended 30 June 2014 Ms Sallyanne Atkinson AO 28/09/14 2014 2013 Dr Roger Higgins, Chairman Ms Leith Boully 23/06/14 $ $

Ms Vicki Toms 19/06/14 REVENUE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS Prof Paul Greenfield AO 30/09/13 Sponsorship 697,044 483,696 Donations 299,804 352,971 Prof Gary Jones 30/09/13 Mr Martin Albrecht, AC Other 26,225 6,100

Government Assistance & Grants 178,091 200,000 The following people were elected to the International RiverFoundation Board of Directors:

Dr Roger Higgins 24/11/14 1,201,164 1,042,767 Professor Bill Dennison Interest 33,115 41,122 Dr Deborah Nias 24/11/14 1,234,279 1,083,889 Dr Selina Ward 24/11/14

Mr Kieren Perkins OAM 24/11/14 EXPENSES Other expenses from ordinary activities Dr Deborah Nias Riverprize 447,616 357,438 Mr Philip Weller 24/11/14 River Knowledge 215,702 82,172 The following people were re-appointed for a 3-year term: River Recovery 58,198 62,953

Professor Bill Dennison 24/11/14 Twinning 97,565 354,254 Dr Peter Rowley Other 1,553 182 Dr Peter Rowley 24/11/14 Corporate support costs 621,662 397,231 1,442,296 1,254,230 Public Fund Committee DEFICIT FROM ORDINARY ACTIVITIES BEFORE INCOME TAX (208,017) (170,341) Dr Selina Ward The following were members of the Public Fund Management Committee according to Clause 10 of Income tax expense – – the International RiverFoundation Constitution as at the end of the 2013-2014 financial year:

Mr Philip Weller Mr David Askern Appointed 11/08/03 DEFICIT FROM ORDINARY ACTIVITIES AFTER RELATED INCOME TAX (208,017) (170,341) Mr Bob Grice Appointed 10/11/05

Mr Doug McLaggan Appointed 27/10/05 NET DEFICIT (208,017) (170,341) The following have since resigned from the Public Fund Management Committee: Mr Michael Wright Total changes in equity other than those resulting Mr David Askern Resigned 11/11/14 from transactions with owners as owners (208,017) (170,341)

The above income statement should be read in conjunction with the full auditors report, available at www.riverfoundation.org.au

26 IRF Annual Report 2012/13 27 Balance Sheet for the year ended 30 June 2014 Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 30 June 2014

2014 2013 2014 2013 $ $ $’000 $’000

ASSETS Total equity at the beginning of the financial year 393,147 563,488

Current assets Net income recognised directly in equity Cash and liquid assets 864,561 1,168,420 Deficit for the year (208,017) (170,341) Receivables 50,100 204,100 Total recognised income and expense for the year (208,017) (170,341) 914,661 1,172,520 Non-Current assets Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders – – Property, plant and equipment 1,180 1,986 Total equity at the end of the financial year 185,130 393,147 TOTAL ASSETS 915,840 1,374,506

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the full auditors report, available at www.riverfoundation.org.au LIABILITIES Current liabilities Payables 710,710 781,359 Deferred income 20,000 200,000 Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 30 June 2014 TOTAL LIABILITIES 730,710 981,359 2014 2013 $’000 $’000

NET ASSESTS 185,130 393,147 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Receipts 1,190,165 654,966 EQUITY Payment to suppliers and employees (1,525,337) (1,005,264) Retained profits 185,130 393,147 (335,172) (350,298)

TOTAL EQUITY 185,130 393,147 Interest received 33,115 41,122

NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES (302,057) (309,176) The above balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the full auditors report, available at www.riverfoundation.org.au

Purchase of property, plant and equipment (1,802) - Withdrawal of financial assets at fair value - - NET CASH PROVIDED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES (1,802)- -

NET CASH PROVIDED FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES - -

TOTAL NET INCREASE/ (DECREASE) IN CASH HELD (303,859) (309,176)

CASH AT THE BEGINNING OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1,168,420 1,477,596

CASH AT THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR 864,561 1,168,420

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the full auditors report, available at www.riverfoundation.org.au

28 IRF Annual Report 2012/13 29 IMAGE: from RiIVERBLUEMOVIE.COM

ACFID Code of Conduct

In the year 2012/13, the International RiverFoundation became a member of the Australian Council For International Development (ACFID), the peak council of Australian non- government organisations. As members of ACFID, the International RiverFoundation are signatories to the ACFID Code of Conduct, a document setting out the standards of accountability in the areas of program principles public engagement; and organisation. Compliance to the ACFID Code of Conduct demonstrates the high standards of the IRF.

The International RiverFoundation was welcomed as a provisional member of ACFID in December 2012, and ratified as a full member at the ACFID Annual General Meeting in October 2013. The IRF is excited to be an ACFID member and will now qualify for many membership benefits and training programs .

Feedback is important to the International RiverFoundation. If you are unhappy with any of our actions, our complaints policy is available at www.riverfoundation.org.au. Alternatively, you may contact the IRF head office via telephone on +61 7 3026 0823 or by email at info@ riverfoundation.org.au.

For complaints regarding breeches to the ACFID code of conduct, please nodify the ACFID Code of Conduct Committee via www.acfid.asn.au/code-of-conduct/complaints.

23 IRF Annual Report 2013/14 1131

INTERNATIONAL RiverFoundation

Level 8 200 Creek Street Spring Hill QLD 4000 Australia (tel) +61 7 3026 0823 [email protected]

For more information visit: www.riverfoundation.org.au