Yarra to be dredged

By Niccola Anthony

The state government has announced $4.6 million to dredge the lower Yarra River in an effort to improve commercial and recreational access.

$2.8 million has been allocated for initial works, followed by a further $1.8 million over three years to maintain the dredging program.

The funding represents the largest investment into the Yarra River since 2006, when Melbourne hosted the Commonwealth Games.

The announcement follows recommendations made by Parks Victoria in the Lower Yarra River Dredging Study, which suggest that the environmental impact of dredging on the river’s surroundings is low.

The study outlined a number of priority dredging sites, such as the Victorian Rowing Association Landing, Herring Island, Melbourne Park Landing, Collins Landing, Crown Floating Landing and Southbank Public Wharf.

The state government believes sustainable dredging will enable safer river navigation, ensuring that the Yarra is accessible for public use well into the future.

The funding was welcomed by a number of river stakeholders, which are hopeful that the river will remain a key draw for tourists and visitors to the city.

“This $4.6 million funding boost is critical in ensuring that everyone who uses the Yarra, whether it be for sport or recreation, can continue to enjoy it well into the future,” Felicity Mariani, the chief executive of the Victorian Industry Tourism Council (VTIC) said.

“VTIC has called for government to invest in the state’s regions and natural assets and the Yarra River is one of our most valued assets.”

The funding announcment follows the recent completion of the $2 million floating berths (pictured above) at Southgate - a project long advocated for by the Yarra River Business Association (YRBA).

YRBA president John Forman noted the historical and cultural significance of the Yarra River in Melbourne’s development and said that this latest investment would ensure the Yarra’s continued contribution to the “booming visitor economy”.

“More visitors are travelling to Melbourne than ever before and we’re investing to keep them coming. It’s great news for local businesses and tourism operators along the lower Yarra River,” Mr Forman said.

The announcement was made on the same day that the Victorian Greens pitched an election plan to make the Yarra swimmable again in the CBD and around a number of inner city suburbs.

The Greens’ plan is expected to cost $34.3 million and would require significant changes to planning laws, in an attempt to reduce rainwater runoff from buildings, roads and footpaths.