Cooks River

Since the arrival of the first Europeans the Cooks River has had a tumultuous history. It has been dammed, diverted, dredged, dumped and thoroughly degraded.

In more recent times, thanks to the enormous work and efforts of individuals, government bodies and community, the river is recovering. Increasingly the river is recognised as a fantastic community resource with many natural and cultural features.

The following links are to some of the many projects that Council is involved in to improve the Cooks River as a natural and community resource.

• Cooks River Foreshore Working Group
  A team of representatives from local councils and state government agencies, working together to coordinate improvements to the health and amenity of the Cooks River system.
   
• Cooks River Integrated Interpretation Strategy
  A strategy finalised in January 2008 with the ultimate aim of integrating interpretation into the forward planning, management and conservation of the river.
   
• Cooks River Sustainability Initiative (CRSI)
  A partnership between all Councils bordering the Cooks River to focus on long-term improvement of the Cooks River catchment.
   
• Marrickville Cooks River Committee
  Established to work with the community in improving the environment for the Cooks River and promote the value of the river's value as a natural system.
   
• RiverScience
  Ecological monitoring program conducted jointly between Marrickville, Kogarah, Rockdale and Canterbury Councils.
   
• Riverlife
  Find out more about Riverlife, a joint community engagement initiative of Marrickville, Canterbury and Strathfield Councils. Includes information about Riverlife Interpretive Tours, free guided walking tours along the Cooks River.