Every step counts as Yarra Valley Water staff walk for clean water
Through WaterAid Australia’s Walk for Water, participants raise funds and awareness for the 703 million people worldwide still without access to clean water – many of whom often walk long distances every day to collect water for their families. The event runs nationally from 6-10 October.
Yarra Valley Water proudly supports Walk for Water, with staff raising more than $45,000 in the past 2 years alone. Staff are already warming up to make an impact once more.
Yarra Valley Water’s Manager Waste to Energy Services Stephanie Salinas has been one of the organisation’s most dedicated contributors to the fundraiser.
She had previously volunteered for MOSS Foundation, helping them deliver water and sanitation projects in Africa. She said seeing the difference this type of work could make underlined the value of contributing.
“Fundraising takes a bit of time and effort, but when you understand the impact it has you appreciate just how worthwhile it is,” she said.
“In many countries, women and girls are often the ones walking long distances to collect water. This can severely limit their education and job opportunities. Providing people with access to clean water doesn’t just improve health – it changes lives.”
Yarra Valley Water was a founding member of WaterAid Australia when it was established in 2004 and remains a partner of the not-for-profit organisation.
The water retailer is also committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including providing water and sanitation for all and reducing inequalities.
Yarra Valley Water Managing Director Natalie Foeng said the organisation’s involvement with WaterAid helped further these aims.
“The work WaterAid does across the globe has such a profound impact on the lives of so many people,” she said.
“As an organisation, we’re committed to helping communities thrive, and I’m proud that through the dedication of our staff and their support of the Walk for Water, this is something we are achieving not just locally but globally.”
WaterAid Australia Chief Executive Tom Muller said the partnership is critical to achieving lasting change.
“Since WaterAid Australia launched in 2004, we’ve been able to reach more than 5.7 million people with our water, sanitation and hygiene programs. We couldn’t have achieved this without the support of generous organisations like Yarra Valley Water that champion our cause,” they said.
“We’re hoping the 2025 Walk for Water is one of the biggest yet. Every contribution makes a difference, so we encourage individuals and companies alike to step up and join in.”
To sign up or learn more, visit: https://fundraise.wateraid.org.au/event/walkforwater-2025