River in the swimMarathon swimmer Tammy van Wisse, with daughter Rebecca at Lysterfield Lake, is one of many people supporting World Rivers Day. 68547

LOCAL marathon swimmer Tammy van Wisse is one of many celebrities urging people to get involved in World Rivers Day to help raise awareness about funds to protect local rivers and waterways.
Casey residents are being urged to get behind World Rivers Day on 25 September to raise awareness about how critical rivers are to communities.
According to National River Health Program, about 31 per cent of Australian rivers have now suffered minor or major damage, and are in need of restoration.
Matt Reddy, the CEO of International RiverFoundation, which is co-ordinating World Rivers Day in Australia, said more than 60 countries took part in the event last year.
Mr Reddy said the day was a great opportunity for churches to hold a special service dedication to rivers, or for people to organise a fundraiser or celebration with a river theme.
“Our rivers cannot speak up for themselves. That’s why we are doing this project. We can all speak up and do something,” he said.
“You can fundraise for your own river. All of the administration is done through a simple online system. We are looking for people who want to be an “Everyday Hero”.
Everyday Heroes are everywhere. This is about raising critical funds to help rivers. Funding will help with community plantings, re-vegetation, bank stabilisation and more.
By supporting your local river, you’ll be helping keep waterways clean for future generations.” For more information on how to get involved, visit www.riverfoundation.org.au.