River health improves

By Lachlan Ellis

Council has accepted a report into sediment in the Werribee River, noting that the health of the river has improved since the report was initially requested.

The ‘Werribee River Turbidity – Update’ motion came before Council at its 6 December Ordinary Meeting, with the motion noting that the turbidity issue was first raised in February, before a report was presented on 7 June, with a follow-up report to be brought to Council six months later.

The follow-up report notes that “Council officers have been carrying out daily inspections and weekly audits to ensure the endorsed Environmental Management Plans (EMP) have been implemented in the development sites in accordance with EPA Guidelines”, with much of the sediment in the river originating from large stockpiles adjacent to waterways in the Stonehill area in Maddingley.

Specifically, findings across the last six months identify four main sources of sediment: the removal of the Southern Rural Channel, active construction sites, new house construction, and existing sodic soils in the undeveloped land to the west of Stonehill.

To manage and mitigate the issue, Council’s infrastructure team began daily checks of the development sites, weekly audits of the development sites, and fortnightly walks around the development sites.

“As a result [of the checks/audits], the turbidity of the water in the Werribee River has been significantly reduced. The Infrastructure Team will continue to monitor the sediment control measures within development sites on regular bases until construction is completed.” the report states.

The motion to accept the report was moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr Rod Ward, and approved by all Councillors present. Cr Paul Tatchell was an apology at the meeting and was not present.