One of Victoria's most iconic rivers, the Birrarung (also known as the Yarra River), is a site of beauty and contradiction. The river is a vital water source for surrounding ecosystems, a reminder of what some of Melbourne looked like pre-colonisation, and a place of respite for many people living in the city. 

Pollution and neglect has left its environmental health under threat, with 18 out of 25 environmental health indicators rating poorly in the latest State of the Yarra Report. 

Jacob speaks with Rob Hyatt (Koorie Heritage Trust), Jack Norris (historian and archaelogist), and Charlotte Sterrett (Yarra Riverkeeper) about the river's cultural, historical, and ecological significance as well as the challenges that lie ahead in the river's management. 

Earth Matters #1372 was produced by Jacob Gamble.