Locals got behind the movement to “beautify Nowra” and drew, planted and knitted little arty bits by the river on Saturday.

Riverlution committee member Bernadine Morgan said there was a great atmosphere by the Shoalhaven River.

“We’ve had a lot of positive feedback today and it’s great to see anyone pop in and say hi or start drawing or knitting,” she said.

“It’s a way to bring the community together and today is just such a great opportunity to celebrate what Nowra is about.

“There is so much to celebrate in this town – our indigenous community, elders, youth and beautiful surrounds.”

Ms Morgan said her aim is to help change the attitudes of those who have derogative thoughts of Nowra.

“Today marks a real turning point in our community,” she said.

“We have the support of council and the community, with so many people saying we really needed this.

“It has become a reality and we are so looking forward to everyone beautifying those areas they think need it most.”

The group’s tactics have been tried – and succeeded – in cities around the world. And they are beautifully simple: find a bare patch of ground and plant it with flowers or herbs; adopt the space and look after it.

It doesn’t end there. The Riverlutionaries are planning to undertake street art projects as well. The real attraction of this movement is that it doesn’t expect council or any other higher authority to beautify the town centre, it wants to do it itself. 

Within 24 hours of launching its Facebook page, Riverlution had attracted a couple of hundred fans, reflecting a groundswell of local support. 

Get involved in the Riverlution by liking their Facebook page and finding out about what you can do to beautify Nowra.