Recovery update

Published 25 January 2019

Melbourne Water and Environment Protection Authority (EPA) continue to work closely together on the removal of upstream sources of contamination between the fire site and Paramount Road. EPA continues to advise people to avoid coming into contact with water from Stony Creek. Seek medical help if you feel unwell.

Results from samples collected on 12 December 2018 are being formally assessed. The update to the website with these results will occur in the week starting 28 January. Water and sediment sampling occurred on 17 January. Sampling at the four fixed sites (Quarry Road, Cala Street, Cruickshank Park and Hyde Street) will occur at monthly intervals.

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.

EPA has engaged an environmental consultant to provide additional expertise and resources to support the clean-up of Stony Creek between the fire site and Paramount Rd.  The consultant conducted an inspection of the project area with EPA and Melbourne Water this week.

Booms and hay bale bunds continue to trap floating contaminants throughout Stony Creek - these are inspected twice a week and cleaned or replaced when necessary. Melbourne Water’s blue project signage on site have been updated by our field crew today.

Work commenced upstream, adjacent to the fire site on Monday 3 December. Specialist arborists have been removing trees and other vegetation in sections. The tree removal will be completed over the coming weeks.

Work on the M102 Water Main Renewal Project crossed through Cruickshank Park and across Stony Creek this week. The project team will be back on site following the Australia Day long weekend and will recommence works starting at Charlotte Street (east). More information on the project’s progress is available on the Melbourne Water website.