Moonee Ponds Creek set for $16m facelift
A concrete channel for stormwater that runs from Strathmore to Flemington Road is to become a leafy and healthy waterway thanks to Melbourne Water and the Chain of Ponds Collaboration.
The second stage of works at Moonee Ponds Creek will expand on a 350-metre-long section from Strathmore and Oak Park to Lebanon Reserve to create a natural-looking amenity in the middle of the city.
By planting aquatic vegetation and slowing water flow, the project will improve the overall health of the creek. Trees and shrubs planted along new shared paths will increase shading and cooling. and New public gathering spaces – including an amphitheatre – will be completed later this year.
The Chain of Ponds Collaboration unites over a dozen organisations, including four local councils, three water authorities, community advocates, and environmental groups.
Local and Traditional Owner knowledge, along with community feedback played a crucial role in shaping the design of this part of the creek
Moonee Ponds Creek, situated on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, holds significant cultural value. The project includes an interpretive trail, inviting visitors to experience the creek while learning about its cultural significance to our Traditional Owners.
These works were made possible by a $11.4 million contribution from Melbourne Water through its Reimagining Your Creek Program, and $5 million awarded to the Chain of Ponds from the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program.
Comprehensive flood modelling has been undertaken to ensure that there will be no increased flooding risk to the local community or those downstream.
Melbourne Water's Reimagining Your Creek Program works with councils, local communities, and Traditional Owners to transform stormwater drains and concrete channels. The program has already transformed sections of Tarralla Creek in Croydon, Arnolds Creek in Melton West, and Blind Creek in Boronia.
Melbourne Water is leading the delivery of this project on behalf of the Chain of Ponds Collaboration Group and in partnership with Merri-bek City Council, Moonee Valley City Council, Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action (DEECA), Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
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