Hi all,
From the entire River Detectives team we extend a very warm welcome (or welcome back) to our 2026 participating schools and groups. We sincerely hope you enjoy your experience with us. Please know that we are hear to support you and to help you tailor the program to the unique needs of your school and students.
Meet the team!
You are part of a huge cohort of almost 100 schools participating across our five delivery regions with assistance from our wonderful regional coordinators:
- North Central CMA region – Nicole Howie
- Corangamite CMA region – Bec McCristal
- North East CMA region – Hannah Harbourd
- Wimmera CMA region – Jeanie Clark
- Melbourne Water area – Nicole Cowan
Program achievements:
We are very pleased to release our 2025 Statewide Annual Achievements Report. Take a squiz to get a quick summary of the great things we all achieved together last year.
Each year we also shine a light on a few chosen schools and document their River Detectives journey story.
Take a look (and share with your students) our 2025 video stories just released from Emmaus Catholic PS and RedGum (formerly Castlemaine Steiner School & Kindergarten). Both are inspiring in their own ways!
Introductory PD sessions:
We are currently rolling out Introductory PD sessions to provide induction / refreshers to educators. Some regions are offering face to face sessions but we also have online options available for anyone helping you implement the program. See flyer of dates and rsvp to riverdetectives@nccma.vic.gov.au for meeting links.
Opportunities:
During the year we will share opportunities with you. They are not intended to overwhelm but are there just in case they suit your unique situation (or to be put in the memory bank as inspiration for the future).
- Habitat Warriors are excited to offer three FREE interactive online workshops as part of the Department of Education’s Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series. These workshops are aimed at high abilities students in Grades 3 and 4. Step into a world where science meets story! Led by Traditional Owner Kai, the sessions blend ecology, culture and creativity – inspiring students to care for Country while exploring the mysteries of land, plants, animals and stars. Various dates available through the year to help you embed cultural perspectives into your learning programs.
Sky Knowledge: Caring for Country from Above – Online Session – Habitat Warriors
Echoes of Country: Tracks, Calls and Totems – Habitat Warriors
Knowing Our Plants, Knowing Our Place – Online Session – Habitat Warriors
- Junior Landcare Grants are now open and until March 27. They are a great way to value add to your River Detectives work with up to $5000 available to hold an event, do some waterway rehab work, buy extra River Detectives equipment, etc. Check out the link and reach out to riverdetectives@nccma.vic.gov.au if you need a letter of support. 2025 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants | Junior Landcare
