A Clear Flowing Yarra, by Harry Saddler

An uplifting journey along Melbourne's Yarra River.

Harry Saddler is a Melbourne writer (he moved from Canberra 20 years ago) whose work concentrates on the natural environment. In his new book, A Clear Flowing Yarra, he devotes himself heart and soul to Melbourne's defining river. It should be noted at the outset that the name Yarra is a misnomer, a misunderstanding by the Surveyor-General John Helder Wedge in 1835, who misinterpreted the words of two Kulin nation people. Yarra actually means flowing water. The river's real name is Birrarung, meaning river of mists.

A Clear Flowing Yarra is an immersive, companionable book, a love letter to the Yarra River. It's also inspiring in its enthusiasm and eagerness to experience the Yarra first hand. Readers will want to start their own journey of rediscovery after finishing the book. Saddler interviews a range of people – environmentalists, activists, scientists – who work towards keeping the river in a sustainable position. The story of a woman who voluntarily organises rubbish clean ups shows how it is the work of quiet, unsung heroes that make a huge difference to the river's health.

Saddler is also a keen watcher of animals, and he devotes much time to describing the wildlife that lives along and in the river – birds, snakes, bats, birds, possums. He infuses every page with his own sense of wonder and awe at nature's marvels.

An easy-to-read series of riffs on Melbourne's main river system that will delight and enchant. 

A Clear Flowing Yarra, by Harry Saddler. Published by Affirm. $29.99

AUG23