Locals enjoy a glimpse into ancient river story

A group of 22 lucky locals joined Wadandi cultural custodian Zac Webb and the Undalup Association’s Wadandi rangers last week for a paddle up the Wooditjup Bilya (Margaret River) as part of the monthly Friends of Wooditjup Bilya (Margaret River) program, made possible by funding from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Nature Conservation chair Ann Ward shared her passion for the special waterway and its unique values, water quality, endemic species and the fact that it’s the only river in the South-West with intact fringing vegetation.

Zac Webb then took the group on a paddle of the lower reaches of the river, inspiring the paddlers with his extensive knowledge of the river, both recent and in the deep past. He took the group to Gilgit Cove (Fish Cove), a sanctuary and nursery for many fish species, protected by swamp paperbarks or “gundjil”.

He discussed the oceanographic studies that he and his father Wayne have been a part of and which revealed that the Wooditjup Bilya was once a long way from the coast. But the end of the last ice age 40,000 years ago means the oceans have risen to present-day levels. The river remains “intact” under the ocean and the location, and its meandering, as described by Wayne Webb were confirmed by the research.

Zac also showed the boundaries of the Noongar nation and each of the 14 distinct language groups. He described the 4 different skin groups that determine one’s place in life and traditionally, who you can and cannot marry.

“We were all fascinated by the insights shared by Zac and the rangers, and are so grateful for their incredible generosity,” Ann said.