Daylighting project gets green light for Stage 2

JAN Juc Creek’s next stage of natural restoration has obtained the green light thanks to a $700,000 investment in the latest state budget.

The funding injection will go towards the next stage of the Jan Juc Daylighting project, which builds upon previous works work done by the Surf Coast Shire to restore a 250-metre section of the Jan Juc Creek.

“Thanks to the $700,000 investment, the project will involve removing an old, low-flow drainage pipe, as well as constructing a wetland and sediment basin that will improve water quality,” Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said.

“The result will be a beautiful natural habitat for native plants and animals and improved water quality as stormwater is filtered through the system before it reaches the ocean.”

Stage 1 works included decommissioning and modifying the existing underground drainage, reshaping creek banks, and revegetating the area with indigenous planting thousands of plants indigenous to the area.

The practice of “daylighting” refers to the removal of underground stormwater drains in favour of the restoration of an open creek bed.
South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman is excited to see the creek’s natural habitat start to re-emerge from the funds added to the project.

“Better managing stormwater flows into our waterways through an integrated water management approach is vital to preserve habitat for flora and fauna, as well as improving amenity for the local community,” Mr Cheeseman said.

The ongoing daylighting of Jan Juc Creek dates back to 2016 after the creek was identified in the Barwon Integrated Water Management (IWM) Forum and the Barwon Regional Partnership to support greater use of stormwater and improve waterway health.