Project to restore Moorabool River

A PARTNERSHIP between Barwon Water, the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, the state government and the local community will restore the health of the Moorabool River.

Living Moorabool is the first of 10 flagship waterways projects across the state.

The $2.1 million project will improve river banks and land surrounding the river though revegetation, weed control, improved water flows and the removal of barriers to allow fish to move freely up the river.

More than $670,000 of the investment will deliver works to the upper catchment to reconnect land for conservation through new fencing, pest control and improved on-farm practices, which will be delivered through community groups including local landholders.

Greater Geelong’s drinking water is partly supplied from reservoirs on the Moorabool River, which is home to some of the most endangered plant species in Australia and wildlife such as birds, fish and platypus.

Last week, Minister for Water Lisa Neville launched the Living Moorabool access map, which encourages the community to explore the Moorabool River and surrounds and inspected the start of revegetation works, which are already under way.

The map provides locals and visitors with information to help them enjoy the river — from fishing tips, top picnic and barbecue spots and how to get involved in citizen science and spot local wildlife.

“The Living Moorabool project is improving and protecting the health of the river – and this is the first site being launched as part of a series of waterway projects across the state,” Ms Neville said.

“We know the Moorabool River is a significant place for visitors and locals, and we want to ensure it remains a site that the local community are connected to and can visit and enjoy.”

For more information, head to ccmaknowledgebase.vic.gov.au/moorabool.