The Speak Up Campaign was initiated in 2015, primarily as a community-led advocacy group to highlight concerns around implementation of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
For the past 10 years it has fought on behalf of communities in northern Victoria and southern NSW, with rallies, workshops, submissions, a media campaign and numerous meetings and correspondence with government representatives.
Most of its work has been led by high profile Speak Up chair Shelley Scoullar, a former Mayrung rice farmer who now lives in Albury.
But when Speak Up holds its annual general meeting in Finley next month, Mrs Scoullar will not be seeking re-election.
“It is time to pass the baton,” she said.
“It’s time for a fresh, reinvigorated approach to the important work of Speak Up, and I am pleased there is an opportunity to hand over the reins.”
Deputy chair David Farley has indicated he will accept a nomination as Speak Up chair at the annual general meeting, which will be held at the Finley RS Club from 12.30pm on Friday, February 13.
Mrs Scoullar said she was proud of what Speak Up had achieved over the past 10 years, which had included rallies, forums, publishing books, meeting with a Prime Minister and coordinating various other activities which have helped raise awareness around the impacts of poor water policy.
She reflected on highlights during her time as chair, particularly noting coordination of a convoy to Canberra, infiltrating a Ministerial Council meeting at the Canberra Hyatt, and organising a group infiltration of a Rural Press Club function in Melbourne.
“With the 2026 Basin Plan Review, now is the time for renewed energy and focus,” Mrs Scoullar said.
“If elected to the chair’s position, David will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in the agricultural and rural community space.”
Mrs Scoullar said the most disappointing aspect of the past 10 years was witnessing and learning about the manner in which politicians are prepared to sacrifice the wellbeing of our communities, with no qualms about allowing regional Australians to be collateral damage for their political gain.
“Unfortunately, I’ve lost faith in so many politicians and their highly paid bureaucrats who claim to be protecting our environment, but in reality are more interested in protecting their own positions.
“There are workable solutions that can effectively balance the use of water for environmental and productive use, but they are ignored in the endless pursuit of city votes, even when it comes at massive taxpayer expense.
“I hope some of this will be addressed in the review, but not with much confidence.”
Mrs Scoullar encourages individuals and businesses to continue supporting Speak Up as it evolves under new leadership.
The organisation is looking to fill all office-bearing roles, and a nomination form can be found on the group's website.
Anyone interested in filling a vacancy is encouraged to submit their form by February 6, and attend the AGM in person or online.
Members and prospective members are welcome, and registration is via the QR code on the Speak Up 4 Water website, or email speakup4water@gmail.com.
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