The platypus is widely recognised as a uniquely Australian animal. 

By comparison, relatively few people know that the Australian water rat is a genuine native rodent that was a natural part of our environment long before its pest cousins – the black rat and brown rat – arrived with the early colonists.    

The water rat (also known as rakali) is an extremely attractive mammal. Its thick coat of soft fur, dense whiskers, blunt muzzle, partly webbed hind feet, and furry tail, all help create a resemblance to a miniature otter.   

North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is working with the Echuca Moama Landcare Group to bring the Rakali Roadshow to the border town.   

Australian Platypus Conservancy Director Geoff Williams will be presenting an illustrated talk about water-rats at the Campaspe Shire function room in Echuca’s Heygarth Street on Thursday 20 October.   

North Central CMA Program Delivery Manager Tim Shanahan said Mr Williams has been studying platypus and water rats since 1994 and before helping to establish the Conservancy, was Healesville Sanctuary Director and Taronga Zoo Assistant Director.   

“Geoff’s talk will outline the biology and key conservation requirements of the Australian water rat,” he said.   “He will also include tips on how to go about spotting this fascinating native mammal in the wild with the aim of encouraging more people to look out for and report sightings of the species.  

“We are pleased to be working with the Echuca Moama Landcare Group and the Australian Platypus Conservatory to bring this roadshow to Echuca. It will be travelling to other parts of the catchment as well, so keep an eye out for it, and for water rats.”   

The free Echuca Rakali Roadshow will run from 7pm to 8pm at the Campaspe Shire function room, Heygarth Street Echuca on Thursday 20 October.
 
RSVPs by 18 October on 03 5448 7124 or email info@nccma.vic.gov.au   The event is supported through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme and the Victorian Government.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551

t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au