Recovery update
Published 1 March 2019
Environmental Protection Authority’s (EPA) continues to advise people to avoid coming into contact with water from Stony Creek. Seek medical help if you feel unwell.
Council, Melbourne Water and EPA presented at the first Stony Creek Stakeholder Advisory Group meeting on 28 February, and will continue to meet on a monthly basis to to advise on the development and implementation of the Recovery Plan for Stony Creek.
Sediment samples were taken on 15 February from the four fixed sites, as part of the ongoing monitoring program. Results have yet to be received, but are expected in the week of 4 March. EPA officers continue to carry out regular inspections of the fire site to monitor compliance with statutory notices and ensure appropriate risk controls are in place.
Melbourne Water is commencing remediation in Stony Creek between the fire site and Paramount Road in early March, and continue to monitor creek conditions twice a week. EPA is working closely with Melbourne Water and providing advice.
Two community ‘pop up’ information events were held in Cruickshank Park on Sunday 24 and Tuesday 26 February (pictured above). Community members shared many great stories, ideas and aspirations for the rehabilitation of Stony Creek from an estimated 200 people who attended the events. Staff from Melbourne Water, Maribyrnong City Council and EPA were there to answer questions that community members had about different aspects of the recovery and rehabilitation stages. You can still share what’s important to you by going online at by Monday 11 March.
A two-day community workshop will be held on Sunday 17 and Sunday 24 March. The purpose of the workshop is to further understand what the community values about Stony Creek and their ideas and aspirations for rehabilitation, and to identify a set of desired outcomes, key priorities and actions for the rehabilitation plan. Participants must be available to attend both days. To register your interest, apply online by Friday 1 March.
Melbourne Water’s M102 Water Main Renewal Project
Works to start excavation along Julian Street will begin soon, with access for vehicle traffic being temporarily restricted. From early March, concrete barriers will be placed along part of Somerville Road as the project prepares to start work at the intersection of Julian Street and Somerville Road. All project equipment has been removed from Cruickshank Park, except for some temporary fencing protecting areas that have been re-seeded around the pipe alignment. Access to a temporary track through Cruickshank Park from a local right-of-way (row) lane to Charlotte Street (east) is also being restricted by the works in Julian Street.
As the project moves further east, there will be less and less impact on Stony Creek and Cruickshank Park. More information on the project’s progress is available on the Melbourne Water website.