Protecting Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh – weed removal and native revegetation

Our rivers and creeks are essential to our way of life. That’s why at Melbourne Water we’re working with the community to improve the health of a section of the Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh.

We will be removing trees and vegetation that are invasive weeds then replanting the area with native trees and plants.

Our maintenance program will also include rabbit control.

These works will improve the health of this waterway by protecting it from erosion while ensuring the local platypus population and other native animals and plants can thrive.

What do the works involve?

In consultation with Moorabool Shire Council, Friends of Werribee River through Bacchus Marsh and Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance we are removing vegetation and selected trees, considered as invasive woody weeds, to make way for native replanting. These invasive trees include peppercorns, elms and willows which negatively impact waterway health as they have thick canopies and prevent lower native vegetation from establishing. 

Only selected trees are being removed. We are retaining trees important for shade and habitat for native birds and animals.

We will then replant the waterway with native trees, shrubs and smaller ground covering plants.

A maintenance program will include rabbit control which will help to protect the new native plants while they develop.

By working together with the community we can protect this section of the Werribee River and restore native habitat for generations to come.

Local impacts

Traffic management and signage along a shared user path will be in place for pedestrians and cyclists while the works are taking place.

Timing and location

Tree removal works will commence 5 May and take approximately 5 weeks. Replanting is scheduled to commence in June.

Works will be done along the Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh from Halletts Way, through Peppertree Park to Boyes Close Bridge.