What is Five Rivers?

I attended a meeting at Five Rivers today, a forum examining how the environmental preserve stands (particularly in respect of recent State cuts) and how it can continue to evolve as an educational and community resource.

It was interesting to hear the suggestions put forward for attracting more visitors.  There were thirty-five or so people gathered for the discussion, and nearly everyone seemed to be drawn to Five Rivers for different reasons. 

For some it's a place to observe and study nature; for others it's somewhere pleasant to take exercise (a series of "fitness hikes" was suggested).  Many like to bring their whole family; others come to find solitude.  Some people find artistic inspiration in the natural environment, and suggested the addition of sound sculptures, or a poetry trail.  For others again Five Rivers is a source of spiritual replenishment... 

By the end of the meeting I realised there is no single catch-all definition for Five Rivers - it offers so much, in diverse ways, to so many people.  I feel luckier than ever to have this resource practically on my doorstep, and keener than ever to support it.