Recovery update
The desilting work of Stony Creek between the fire site and Paramount Road commenced on 28 March, which saw contaminated sediment removed by excavators and other machinery, and temporarily stockpiled and contained at the fire site, where it can be prepared for safe disposal to a secure landfill. This work is anticipated to continue for between 10 to 12 weeks.
Water and sediment results from the sampling on 15 February have been received and analysed by the EPA. The results show that water quality remains relatively good, while sediments remain poor, with high concentrations contaminates including hydrocarbons. These results are now available on EPA's website.
The recovery efforts are highly complex and has required careful planning due to many factors including the nature and extent of contaminants, gaining access to the site, ensuring the safety of all personnel, and treatment and disposal options of the contaminated sediment. The recovery efforts have been made more challenging by the dense cover of vegetation around the creek, unstable banks and exposure to contaminants. The delivery of this recovery work is being coordinated across multiple agencies and is guided by advice from contaminated land specialists.
EPA continues to advise people to avoid coming into contact with water from Stony Creek. Seek medical help if you feel unwell. 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.
Rehabilitation planning
The second day of the two-day community workshop was held on Sunday 24 March, bringing together 24 passionate community members that are playing an important part in defining desired outcomes for the future of Stony Creek, prioritising ideas and identifying key actions for the rehabilitation plan. Staff from Council, Melbourne Water and EPA presented at the workshop, and representatives from DELWP, Hobsons Bay City Council and Parks Victoria were there to answer questions that people had about the recovery and rehabilitation phases.
Feedback received from the workshop, other community events and online submissions will be used to create the Stony Creek Rehabilitation Plan. Council will work closely with Melbourne Water, EPA Victoria and other agencies to outline clear objectives, refine the identified actions and projects for the rehabilitation plan, including defined roles, responsibilities and accountabilities.
If you missed out on being part of the community workshop, a summary report including outcomes and recommendations will be available on the Your Say page next week. There are also other ways you can still be involved and provide feedback to help shape the Stony Creek Rehabilitation Plan. Make sure you follow Melbourne Water’s Your Say page to be kept informed of updates and future opportunities to have your say.
M102 Water Main Renewal Project
Works are continuing to progress well eastward along Somerville Road. In recent days the pipe-laying activity has passed Bishop Street, allowing for access to be restored to this dead-end street. Asphalt works are being completed in Charlotte Street (east) and in Julian Street. These activities will see works in this area complete. It is expected that these works will require the concrete barriers that are currently in place to be moved further along Somerville Road in the coming days. Adaleigh Street will close next, with local residents notified of this and informed of an alternative access point via Maryston Street and an existing ‘right-of-way’ lane. In Cruickshank Park, temporary fencing remains in place around areas where grass is being revegetated. Works to the Stony Creek banks have been completed, with further planting to come by Melbourne Water’s Waterways and Land Delivery team. Overall, the project remains on track and is progressing to schedule. More information on the project’s progress is available on the Melbourne Water website.