One of the region's great environmental advocates, affectionally known as 'Old Man River' has passed away.
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Charlie Weir, aged in his 90s, died in Berry Hospital last week after a short illness. Charlie was the founder of Shoalhaven Riverwatch after becoming involved in a NSW Fisheries mangrove planting program in 1996.
Since then Charlie undertook considerable bank restoration work on the Shoalhaven River with the support of many Riverwatch volunteers.
For almost 20 years Charlie put his heart and soul into improving the health of the Shoalhaven River, planting about 100,000 mangroves and 25,000 casuarina trees along more than seven kilometres of the Shoalhaven riverbank.
Charlie had been on the Shoalhaven River for more of his life, including 40 years on and off as a professional fisherman.
In 2003, Charlie became the Ambassador for Landcare NSW and was announced the State individual Landcare winner.
In 2011, Charlie received a NSW Maritime Medal Certificate of Commendation for his bank restoration work and leadership on the Shoalhaven River.
In 2015, Charlie was selected as the Shoalhaven Superhero of the Year.
A spokesperson for Shoalhaven Riverwatch said Charlie's drive and passion has been an inspiration to many Riverwatch and Shoalhaven Landcare volunteers.
Charlie's funeral will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, May 19 at Worrigee Cemetery at 1pm. Riverwatch members will wear their club shirts as they farewell their founder.
