River revegetation continues

On-growing project: Species planted and landscaping undertaken along the Yarrowee River is aiming to boost biodiversity and beauty, and keep weeds down. Photo: SUPPLIED

AS part of Yarrowee River revitalisation works following the second stage of the Ballarat Sewer Build, Central Highlands Water has overseen the planting of thousands of trees and shrubs along its banks.

Within the last twelve months, CHW in partnership with Ballarat Treeworks and contractor Diona have overseen 3800 plants being put in the ground, further landscaping works, watering and weeding.

“It’s fulfilling to see how quickly these new plantings are growing alongside the Yarrowee River,” said Ballarat Sewer Build project manager, Chris Loader.

“The use of logs, stumps and mulch from onsite, as well as suitable plants have encouraged biodiversity, supressed invasive weeds, and continue to beautify the popular walking trail.”

This year of work followed CHW’s Yarrowee River Community Planting Day in October of 2023 which saw 2200 shrubs and trees planted by members of Friends of the Yarrowee, Mount Pleasant History Group, and Friends of Canadian Corridor, Rotarians, Scout groups, and local residents.

“From December 2024, City of Ballarat will take over the management of this area and will continue to care for the plantings for our community and environment,” a statement from CHW said.

The Ballarat Sewer Build project is worth $25 million and is aiming to create six kilometres worth of duplicated piping infrastructure between Ballarat East and Ballarat South that can last for the next century.

Works around the overhead pipe near the Ballarat South Wastewater Treatment Plant are complete. Visit chw.net.au/sewerbuild for more information.