Recovery update
Published on 23 November 2018
Following the rainfall this week, Melbourne Water crews inspected the floating booms and hay bale bunds and replaced as necessary. Overall there was minimal damage, although some debris was cleaned-up around Waratah Street. The rain and increased stream flows this week are likely to aid recovery by scouring the stream bed, transporting contaminated sediments further along the stream and possibly out into the Yarra River.
At the same time, it will increase odours as the contaminants are brought to the surface, once again potentially causing distress to local residents. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) continues to advise people to avoid coming into contact with water from Stony Creek. Seek medical help if you feel unwell.
The targeted sediment sampling undertaken on 18-19 October have been assessed and included in the latest web update. They have also been provided to and discussed with Melbourne Water.
Sediment results from sampling that occurred in the Stony Creek Backwash on 19 October have been assessed and provided to Parks Victoria. The results show the presence of contaminants but at lower levels than that seen in the creek closer to the fire site. An earlier analysis indicated the presence of herbicide which may have contributed to the die back of the juvenile mangroves.
Melbourne Water is currently working in other locations along Stony Creek and not downstream of Paramount Road through Cruickshank Park. However, they encourage local residents to let them know if any areas require immediate attention.
On 21 November, Melbourne Water inspected potential impacts following a small structure fire on Paramount Road. Impacts were minimal as the floating booms were able to mitigate any fire water impacts. Results from last week’s water and sediment sampling are expected by the end of this week.
Canisters and tubes that monitor Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) were deployed in the Park Ave area last week and again this week to help EPA understand the impacts after this week’s heavy rain.
Melbourne Water is working closely with EPA to remove upstream sources of contamination between the fire site and Paramount Road. To date, they’ve removed, stockpiled and contained 170 m3 of contaminated silt ready for safe disposal in a secure landfill. By March 2019 they’ll have removed and stockpiled another 500m3 or more of contaminated silt. This work is planned to commence in early December 2018. Further testing and assessment will be undertaken during the work and after it is complete to ensure the creek has been remediated to appropriate levels.
EPA has inspected the fire site regularly this week to confirm it is being managed properly, including an inspection after the rain event.
This week EPA staff repaired warning signs along Stony Creek (upstream of Geelong Road).
During December, works supporting the M102 Water Main Renewal Project will take place in Cruickshank Park. More information available on Melbourne Water’s website.
Thank you to everyone who came down to our Community Day last weekend! We hope you enjoyed the activities, while also learning more about the Creek and the recovery effort. View photos and read about the highlights here.