Recovery update

Published on 7 June 2019

More heavy rain over the past week has delayed processing and treating the stockpiled contaminated material at the fire site. Approximately 200 cubic metres of treated material has been removed from the site and has been disposed at a secure landfill site. The remaining material is expected to be processed and treated by the end of next week, weather permitting.

As a result of the recent rainfall, there have been some odour issues around Cala Street. Melbourne Water has been monitoring conditions in the Creek around this area.  

Deeper excavation and remediation work for areas near the fire site and further desilting of contaminated sediment in the Creek at the fire site will commence from the end of this week.

Approximately 400-700 cubic metres of sediment will be removed from the Creek over the next few weeks.  

EPA expect monitoring results from 31 May to be finalised by the end of next week and preliminary results from recent topographical surveys is being used to inform further desilting works across the fire site.  

Melbourne Water continues to develop the draft rehabilitation plan with input from the community, Council and EPA. The draft plan is expected to be released for public consultation in July. Community feedback will be incorporated into the final plan to ensure it aligns with their expectations, values and aspirations.

The final plan is expected to be published in August, ready for implementation.  

EPA’s ongoing advice is:

• Avoid contact with the water in Stony Creek.
• Don’t walk along the edge of Stony Creek.
• Don't let pets swim in the area or drink the water.
• As a precaution avoid eating fish from Stony Creek.
• Seek medical help if you feel unwell.