The voice of experience will come from Blacktown with Councillors Barbara Gapps and Kathie Collins both recently reappointed to the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust. Cr Collins has been a Trustee since 1991, whilst Cr Gapps has been a member since 1999. The Trust, which is appointed after every local government election, has four new faces on its board, nominated by the other three catchment councils, Baulkham Hills, Parramatta and Holroyd.

Cr Kathie Collins said, " I 1991 I was appointed to the Trust to represent Blacktown City Council. After experiencing the terrible flooding of south Blacktown in 1986/87 I was really keen to get involved. I had noted the good work that the Trust had done and I wanted to be part of future initiatives to mitigate flooding and improve the quality of our catchments waterways. I am very pleased to continue working with the Trust as i see it as at the cutting edge of water conservation and urban environmental improvement".

Bob Junor, Chairman of the Trust, said it was great to have a new Trust with some new faces and fresh ideas, whilst retaining the experience and commitment of continuing board members. "We've got a very effective mix", Mr Junor added.

"I welcome all of the new Trustees to the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust that will direct its work over the next few years".

Established in 1989 the Trust has worked to reduce flooding, improve water quality, enhance bushland areas and promote wiser use of water within the catchment that covers parts of the Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Holroyd and Parramatta Council areas.

For more information on the Trust visit www.uprct.nsw.gov.au or contact 9891 4633.